Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
These Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are the perfect mix of spicy, creamy, and crispy. Fresh jalapeños are stuffed with a rich cheese filling, then wrapped in smoky bacon that cooks up golden and irresistible. They’re an easy crowd-pleasing appetizer that disappears fast at parties and game day gatherings.
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.