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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers with cream cheese balance heat and coolness with a crunchy bacon shell and creamy filling, perfect for snacks or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium fresh jalapeños
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 12 strips thin to medium-cut bacon
  • 1/2 cup (about 60 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if available.
  2. Wear gloves. Cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds and membranes to control heat level.
  3. In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional smoked paprika or cayenne until smooth.
  4. Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cream cheese mixture.
  5. Cut bacon slices in half if large. Wrap each filled jalapeño half with a bacon piece, securing with a toothpick if needed.
  6. Place bacon-wrapped jalapeños seam side down on the wire rack or parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bacon is crispy and jalapeños are tender.
  8. Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness, watching closely to avoid burning.
  9. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation. Use thinner bacon for better crispiness. If no wire rack, flip poppers halfway through baking. Broil briefly for extra crispiness but watch closely to prevent burning. Can prepare ahead and refrigerate before baking, adding a few extra minutes to cook time.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon-wrapped, cream cheese, appetizer, snack, spicy, easy recipe