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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

A quick and easy appetizer featuring fresh jalapeños stuffed with a creamy seasoned cream cheese filling, wrapped in crispy thick-cut bacon. Perfect for gatherings and casual snacking with a bold, comforting flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium fresh jalapeños, firm
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1012 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membranes. Rinse and pat dry.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, shredded cheddar cheese (if using), salt, pepper, and chopped cilantro (if using). Mix until creamy and well blended.
  4. Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cream cheese mixture without overfilling.
  5. Cut bacon slices in half if needed to fit around each popper. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a strip of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
  6. Place the poppers on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet, bacon seam-side down. If no rack is available, place directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and browned. Check at 15 minutes and rotate the pan if needed for even cooking.
  8. Let the poppers cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

Notes

If bacon isn’t crisping enough, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning. Chilling the cream cheese mixture for 15 minutes before filling helps it hold shape better during baking. Wearing gloves when handling jalapeños prevents skin irritation. For less heat, remove all seeds and membranes. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat best in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon-wrapped, appetizer, spicy snack, cream cheese, party food, easy recipe