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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers: Easy 20-Minute Appetizer

Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image
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These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, featuring perfectly crispy bacon, creamy cheese filling, and just the right amount of heat. Ready in under 20 minutes, they’re perfect for game day, parties, or any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • Toothpicks

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, then place a wire rack on top.
  2. Wearing gloves, cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scrape out the seeds and white membranes.
  3. In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
  4. Fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture using a small spoon or piping bag. Use about a heaping teaspoon per half.
  5. Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise. Wrap one half-slice around each filled jalapeño half, spiraling slightly to cover the filling. Secure with a toothpick.
  6. Arrange the wrapped poppers on the wire rack, leaving space between each.
  7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
  8. Remove from the oven and let rest on the rack for 5 minutes.
  9. Transfer to a platter, remove toothpicks if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

For extra crispy bacon, use thin-cut bacon and a wire rack. If bacon isn’t crispy enough after 20 minutes, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely. Let cream cheese come to room temperature for easier mixing. Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid burning your hands.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon-wrapped, appetizer, game day, spicy, creamy, crispy bacon, party food

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