Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a perfect party snack combining spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese filling, and crispy bacon for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 poppers (12 jalapeños halved) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 medium-sized fresh jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (100 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 12 slices thin-cut bacon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place a wire rack on top if available.
- Wear gloves. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out seeds and membranes to reduce heat as desired.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of milk or cream if mixture is too stiff.
- Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture using a spoon or melon baller.
- Partially cook bacon slices on another baking sheet for 6-8 minutes until they start to render fat but remain flexible.
- Wrap each cheese-stuffed jalapeño half with a slice of partially cooked bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed. Place on prepared baking sheet or wire rack.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until bacon is crispy and cheese filling is bubbly. Flip halfway through baking if not using a wire rack.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow cheese to set.
Notes
Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Partially precook bacon to ensure crispiness without undercooking. Use a wire rack for even crisping or flip poppers halfway through baking. Let poppers rest before serving to avoid burns from hot cheese. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes watching closely.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 popper
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 0.5
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Fiber: 0.3
- Protein: 5
Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon wrapped, party snack, appetizer, spicy, creamy cheese, easy recipe