Description
These Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers are a flavorful appetizer featuring spicy jalapeños stuffed with a creamy blend of cheeses, seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, then wrapped in smoky bacon and baked until crispy. Perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you crave a spicy, cheesy bite with a crunchy bacon finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened, or a dairy-free alternative)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a dairy-free alternative)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 10 slices bacon (thick-cut, cut in half lengthwise)
- 10 jalapeño peppers (medium-sized)
- Parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the poppers.
- Prepare jalapeños: Slice each jalapeño pepper in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the seeds and white membranes, then gently tap the pepper halves to remove any remaining seeds.
- Make cheese filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Stuff jalapeños: Spoon about one tablespoon of the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, spreading it evenly within the cavity.
- Wrap with bacon: Cut each bacon slice in half lengthwise. Wrap one bacon piece around each stuffed jalapeño half, making sure to start and finish with the bacon underside for secure wrapping.
- Prepare baking sheet: Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. If a wire rack is unavailable, line the baking sheet with parchment paper as an alternative.
- Arrange poppers: Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños evenly spaced on the rack or parchment paper, ensuring they aren’t touching to allow even cooking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is fully cooked and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, optionally sprinkle with parsley, and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For less heat, remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.
- Use thick-cut bacon for a more substantial wrap and crispier texture.
- A wire rack ensures even cooking and prevents soggy bacon but parchment paper will work if you don’t have one.
- Try substituting the cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor twist.
- These poppers can be served with ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce if desired.
