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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers feature a creamy, tangy cheese filling wrapped in smoky, crispy bacon, perfect for parties or late-night snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium-sized fresh jalapeño peppers
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (100 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Small handful fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top if using.
  2. Wear gloves. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds and membranes for less heat or leave some for spicier poppers. Pat dry with paper towels.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. Stir in cilantro or parsley if desired.
  4. Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture using a spoon or small scoop.
  5. Cut bacon slices in half if needed. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half tightly with a bacon strip, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
  6. Place the bacon-wrapped poppers on the wire rack or directly on the lined baking sheet, bacon seam side down.
  7. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bacon is crispy and cheese is melted and bubbly. Check at 20 minutes to avoid burning.
  8. Let the poppers rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.

Notes

Use thin-cut bacon for better crispiness. Wearing gloves when handling jalapeños prevents skin irritation. Using a wire rack helps bacon crisp evenly. Let poppers rest after baking to avoid messy drips. Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end if bacon isn’t crispy enough. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers, appetizer, spicy snack, party food, easy recipe, creamy cheese filling, crispy bacon