Print

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

A simple and delicious appetizer featuring jalapeños stuffed with a creamy cheese filling, wrapped in crispy bacon. Perfect for parties and quick snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 fresh medium-sized jalapeños
  • 8 ounces (227 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 cup (about 50 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wearing gloves if sensitive, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove all seeds and membranes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
  4. Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly into each jalapeño half, pressing lightly to fill the cavity completely.
  5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with one slice of bacon, spiraling to cover as much as possible. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
  6. Place the wrapped jalapeños seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for air circulation.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking after 15 minutes to ensure bacon is crispy but not burnt. Add a few extra minutes if using thick-cut bacon.
  8. Let the poppers rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set slightly.

Notes

Remove seeds and membranes to control heat. Use softened cream cheese for easy filling. Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure crispy bacon. Watch oven carefully to avoid burning bacon. Optionally finish under broiler for extra crispness. Can substitute mini sweet peppers for milder flavor or use dairy-free cream cheese and nitrate-free bacon for dairy-free version.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon wrapped, cream cheese appetizer, party snacks, easy appetizer, spicy snack