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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers feature a creamy cheese filling with a perfect balance of spicy heat and smoky bacon crispiness, making them an irresistible snack for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium-sized fresh jalapeños
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (100 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 12 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top if available.
  2. Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes. Remove all seeds for less heat or leave some for more kick.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Fold in chopped cilantro if using.
  4. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, filling generously but without overflow.
  5. Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise. Wrap each jalapeño half with a bacon strip, tucking the end underneath to secure.
  6. Place the bacon-wrapped poppers seam side down on the wire rack over the baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbling. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching carefully.
  8. Let the poppers cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

Notes

Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Use thick-cut bacon for better crispiness and to hold poppers together. Rotate baking sheet halfway through cooking for even crisping. Let poppers rest before serving to prevent cheese from oozing. Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness. Optional broiling at the end enhances bacon crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon-wrapped, snack, appetizer, spicy, cheesy, game night, easy recipe