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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Jalapeños with Cream Cheese

bacon-wrapped stuffed jalapeños - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped stuffed jalapeños combine the sharp kick of jalapeño, smooth richness of cream cheese, and irresistible crunch of bacon for a quick and crowd-pleasing grilled appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium fresh jalapeños, sliced in half lengthwise and seeded
  • 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 10 slices thin-cut bacon, cut in half
  • Toothpicks (for securing bacon)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the jalapeños under cold water. Slice each pepper in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membranes.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and well blended.
  3. Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cream cheese mixture, leaving a little space to avoid spillover during cooking.
  4. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a half slice of bacon, securing the ends underneath or with a soaked toothpick.
  5. Preheat the grill to medium heat, about 350°F (175°C). If using charcoal, let coals burn down to glowing embers.
  6. Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños on the grill grates seam side down. Close the lid and cook for 7-10 minutes.
  7. Carefully flip the poppers and cook the other side for another 7-10 minutes until bacon is crispy and jalapeños are tender.
  8. Check for doneness: bacon should be crispy and cream cheese filling warmed and slightly bubbling.
  9. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Soak toothpicks in water for 10 minutes before using to prevent burning. Use thin-cut bacon for faster crisping. Rotate poppers every 5 minutes for even cooking. Can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes as an alternative to grilling. Prepare ahead up to wrapping stage and refrigerate until ready to grill.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon-wrapped jalapeños, stuffed jalapeños, cream cheese jalapeños, grilled appetizers, spicy snacks, bacon appetizers