If you’re looking for an appetizer that disappears within minutes, these Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are it. They’re smoky, creamy, slightly spicy, and wrapped in crispy bacon that delivers big flavor in every bite. The contrast between the heat of the jalapeño, the rich cream cheese filling, and the salty bacon makes them impossible to resist.
This is a classic party recipe for a reason. Whether you’re hosting a game day, holiday gathering, BBQ, or casual get together, jalapeño poppers are always one of the first dishes to go. And the best part? They look impressive but are actually very easy to make.
No deep frying required. Just simple prep, a hot oven (or air fryer), and you’ve got a guaranteed hit.
Bacon Jalapeño Poppers
What Are Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers?
Bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers are fresh jalapeño peppers, halved and seeded, stuffed with a creamy cheese filling, then wrapped in bacon and baked until crisp.
Why they work so well:
- Jalapeños provide heat and crunch
- Cream cheese filling cools and balances spice
- Bacon adds smoky, salty crispness
- Baking allows fat to render slowly for perfect texture
They’re finger food, appetizer, and comfort food all in one.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only a few simple ingredients
- No frying mess
- Easy to prep ahead
- Customizable heat level
- Perfect for parties and holidays
- Keto and low carb friendly
These poppers are rich, flavorful, and always popular.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
Optional Add Ins
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 2 tbsp cooked, crumbled bacon (inside filling)
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Jalapeños: Choose firm, smooth peppers for best texture.
- Cream Cheese: Full fat gives the creamiest filling.
- Cheese: Cheddar adds sharpness, but Colby Jack or pepper jack also work.
- Bacon: Thin cut bacon crisps better than thick cut.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep and 25–30 minutes to bake.
Step 1: Prep the Jalapeños
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top if available.
Slice jalapeños lengthwise. Remove seeds and membranes with a spoon.
Tip: Wear gloves if you’re sensitive to spice.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, black pepper, and any optional add-ins until smooth.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 3: Fill the Jalapeños
Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half. Fill generously but don’t overstuff.
Step 4: Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a half slice of bacon, stretching slightly if needed. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
Place poppers seam side down on the rack.
Step 5: Bake Until Crispy
Bake for 25–30 minutes, turning once if needed, until bacon is crisp and filling is bubbly.
For extra crisp bacon, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve
Let poppers cool for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks if desired.
Recipe Tips for Best Results
- Use thin cut bacon for crispiness
- Don’t overfill jalapeños
- Elevate poppers on a rack to render fat
- Let cream cheese soften before mixing
- Remove seeds fully for milder heat
Heat Level Control
Mild Poppers
- Remove all seeds and membranes
- Use plain cream cheese
Medium Heat
- Leave a small amount of membrane
- Use sharp cheddar
Spicy Poppers
- Add cayenne or chili flakes
- Use pepper jack cheese
You can easily adjust spice to your audience.
Cooking Method Variations
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F
- Place poppers seam side down
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping once
Grill Method
- Preheat grill to medium heat
- Place poppers on indirect heat
- Grill 20–25 minutes with lid closed
Flavor Variations
BBQ Jalapeño Poppers
Brush bacon lightly with BBQ sauce during last 5 minutes of baking.
Ranch Poppers
Mix ranch seasoning into the cream cheese.
Buffalo Poppers
Add buffalo sauce to the filling and drizzle on top.
Extra Cheesy
Add mozzarella or cream cheese + cheddar combo.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with ranch or sour cream
- Pair with guacamole or salsa
- Add to appetizer platters
- Serve alongside wings or sliders
- Perfect for game days and BBQs
They pair well with almost any party spread.
Storage and Make Ahead Tips
Make Ahead
- Assemble poppers up to 24 hours ahead
- Store covered in the fridge
- Bake just before serving
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days
- Store in airtight container
Reheating
- Oven: 375°F for 8–10 minutes
- Air fryer: 350°F for 5 minutes
- Avoid microwaving if possible
Freezing Tips
- Freeze unbaked poppers on a tray
- Transfer to freezer bag
- Freeze up to 2 months
- Bake from frozen, adding 10 minutes
Nutritional Information (Approx. per popper)
- Calories: 110–130
- Protein: 5–6g
- Fat: 9–10g
- Carbs: 1–2g
Values vary by cheese and bacon used.
Common Problems & Solutions
Bacon not crispy:
Use thin bacon or broil briefly.
Too spicy:
Remove membranes completely and add more cheese.
Cheese leaking:
Don’t overfill peppers.
Greasy poppers:
Bake on a rack so fat drips away.
Recipe FAQ,s
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours.
Are they keto-friendly?
Yes. Very low-carb and high-fat.
Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, but it won’t crisp as well.
Can kids eat these?
Make a mild version with seeds removed.
Do I need toothpicks?
Optional, but helpful if bacon won’t stay wrapped.
Why This Recipe Works
- Balanced heat and creaminess
- Bacon adds texture and flavor
- Simple, reliable method
- Minimal ingredients
- Easy to scale for crowds
It’s a proven appetizer that never fails.
Conclusion
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are the ultimate crowd pleasing appetizer. They’re crispy, creamy, spicy, and packed with bold flavor in every bite. Easy to prep, easy to bake, and always a hit, this is one recipe you’ll use again and again.
Whether it’s game day, a holiday party, or a casual weekend gathering, these poppers belong on your menu.
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 12 slices bacon cut in half
Optional Add Ins
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 2 tbsp cooked crumbled bacon (inside filling)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 2 tbsp cooked crumbled bacon (inside filling)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Jalapeños
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top if available.
- Slice jalapeños lengthwise. Remove seeds and membranes with a spoon.
- Tip: Wear gloves if you’re sensitive to spice.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling
- In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, black pepper, and any optional add-ins until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 3: Fill the Jalapeños
- Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half. Fill generously but don’t overstuff.
Step 4: Wrap with Bacon
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a half slice of bacon, stretching slightly if needed. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
- Place poppers seam side down on the rack.
Step 5: Bake Until Crispy
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, turning once if needed, until bacon is crisp and filling is bubbly.
- For extra crisp bacon, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve
- Let poppers cool for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks if desired.
Video
Notes
📝 Notes
- Use fresh jalapeños for the best flavor and texture.
- Remove seeds for milder poppers or keep them for extra heat.
- Mix cream cheese with shredded cheese for a creamy, flavorful filling.
- Wrap bacon tightly around each jalapeño for even cooking.
- Bake or grill until bacon is crisp and cheese is melted.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.
