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These bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a crowd-pleasing appetizer with a creamy, cheesy center wrapped in perfectly crispy bacon. They bring a beautiful balance of heat and richness that makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for parties, game days, or a spicy snack anytime.
I made these during my last family gathering and they disappeared so fast that I had to double the recipe next time. The crispy bacon with the creamy and spicy jalapeño always gets rave reviews and has become a go-to whenever we want something easy but flavorful.
Ingredients
- Half a cup cream cheese: ensures the filling is rich and creamy use full fat for best flavor and texture
- Half a cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese: adds a nice sharpness and melting quality freshly shredded cheese works better than pre-shredded for smooth filling
- Twelve jalapeño peppers, halved lengthwise with seeds and membranes removed: remove seeds carefully using food-grade gloves to avoid skin irritation and manage the heat level
- Twelve slices bacon: choose thin to medium thickness for easier wrapping and even cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Gather and Prepare Ingredients:
- Start by gathering all ingredients. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and even cooking.
- Make the Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese and shredded Cheddar until fully combined and smooth. This mixture will be your flavorful, creamy filling inside the peppers.
- Stuff the Jalapeños:
- Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture. Make sure to spread it evenly to get a balanced filling in every bite.
- Reassemble and Wrap the Jalapeños:
- Put each pair of jalapeño halves back together to recreate the whole pepper shape with the cheese stuff in the middle. Then, wrap each reassembled pepper with one slice of bacon, securing the cheese inside and adding that smoky crunch.
- Bake Until Crispy:
- Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 25 to 35 minutes. The goal is to cook until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is hot and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the poppers warm with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or a spicy aioli. They are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when the bacon is still crisp.
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Bacon is my favorite ingredient here because it adds a smoky savory element that balances the spicy jalapeño perfectly. I remember the first time I made these and everyone was sneaking back for seconds before the tray was even empty. It’s an easy recipe that never fails to impress.
Storage Tips
Store leftover cooked poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within three days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the bacon crispy. Avoid freezing because the texture of the cream cheese filling suffers once thawed.
Ingredient Substitutions
- If you prefer milder heat, use mini sweet peppers instead of jalapeños
- Swap sharp Cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a creamier, more mellow cheese profile
- Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter, less greasy option but adjust cooking time as it may crisp differently
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these poppers with a cool ranch dip or a tangy sour cream sauce to balance the heat
- They make a great appetizer alongside cold beer or a sparkling cocktail
- Add fresh chopped cilantro or chives on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you prepare the jalapeños for stuffing?
Slice jalapeños lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes to reduce heat. Wearing gloves is recommended to protect your skin from the pepper oils.
- → What kind of cheese mixture is used for filling?
A creamy blend of equal parts cream cheese and shredded sharp Cheddar creates a rich, smooth filling with a bit of tang.
- → How long should bacon-wrapped jalapeños be baked?
Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 25 to 35 minutes until the bacon crisps and the cheese filling is melted.
- → Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and wrap the poppers in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container. Bake just before serving to keep the bacon crispy.
- → What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store cooked poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Freezing is not recommended as the cheese texture may change.