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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a perfect cookout snack featuring spicy jalapeños stuffed with a creamy cheese filling and wrapped in smoky, crispy bacon. Easy to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium fresh jalapeños
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 12 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) or prepare your grill for medium heat.
  2. Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membranes.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix until smooth.
  4. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, being careful not to overfill.
  5. Partially cook the bacon by microwaving slices on a paper towel-lined plate for 1 minute 30 seconds to 2 minutes until softened but not fully cooked.
  6. Cut bacon slices in half if large, then wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
  7. Place the wrapped poppers on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow fat to drip and bacon to crisp evenly.
  8. Bake or grill for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway if grilling, until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbling.
  9. Let poppers rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow cheese to set.

Notes

Partially cooking the bacon before wrapping ensures it crisps up perfectly without overcooking the filling. Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation. A wire rack helps prevent soggy bottoms. Watch bacon closely in the last 5 minutes to avoid burning. Remove toothpicks gently before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers, cookout snack, appetizer, spicy snack, bacon recipe, jalapeño recipe, cheesy poppers