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Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers are a quick, cheesy, and spicy party appetizer featuring fresh jalapeños stuffed with a creamy cheese blend and wrapped in crispy bacon. Perfect for game day, BBQs, or any gathering, they’re easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 large fresh jalapeño peppers
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Chopped chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • Hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)
  • 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)

Instructions

  1. Put on gloves if using. Slice each jalapeño lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membranes. Arrange halves, cut side up, on a lined baking sheet.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
  3. Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, mounding slightly above the edge.
  4. Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
  5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange poppers on the prepared baking sheet (on a wire rack if using). Bake for 25-30 minutes, until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbling.
  6. Let cool for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks before serving. Sprinkle with chives or parsley if desired.

Notes

Thin-cut bacon crisps best. Use toothpicks to secure bacon if needed. For less heat, rinse jalapeños after seeding. Bake on a wire rack for even crisping. You can prep ahead and refrigerate or freeze before baking. For vegetarian, use roasted red pepper strips instead of bacon. Air fryer method: cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.

Nutrition

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