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Easy Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Popper Bites

bacon-wrapped jalapeño popper bites - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño popper bites are spicy, creamy, salty, and ridiculously addictive. Perfect for game day, parties, or a quick snack, they come together in about 30 minutes with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Pinch of salt
  • 12 medium jalapeño peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • Toothpicks, for securing the bacon

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, and place a wire rack on top if using.
  2. Carefully slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scoop out the seeds and white membrane. You should end up with 24 jalapeño halves.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined and smooth.
  4. Using a small spoon or your fingers, stuff each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture. Do not overfill; the filling should be level with the cut edge.
  5. Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño half, starting at one end and spiraling until covered. Trim if needed. Secure the end with a toothpick.
  6. Place the wrapped poppers on the wire rack (or directly on the parchment) with the seam side down. Leave space between each one.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes. At the 15-minute mark, check for browning. For extra crispy bacon, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely.
  8. Let the poppers cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and shred your own cheddar. Pre-cook thick-cut bacon slightly before wrapping. Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid capsaicin burns. Poppers can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated; add 5 minutes to bake time.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon wrapped, game day appetizer, spicy, creamy, crispy, party snack, keto, low carb