Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers Recipe Easy Homemade Cream Cheese Appetizer
These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers combine spicy jalapenos, creamy cheese filling, and crunchy bacon for a quick and delicious appetizer perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 fresh jalapeno peppers, medium-sized, halved and seeded
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 12 strips thin-cut bacon
- ½ cup (50g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top if available.
- Rinse and dry the jalapenos. Slice each in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out all seeds and membranes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and black pepper. Stir until smooth. Fold in chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.
- Fill each jalapeno half generously with the cream cheese mixture using a spoon or small scoop.
- Wrap each filled jalapeno half tightly with one strip of bacon, spiraling from bottom to top. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Place the bacon-wrapped jalapenos on the wire rack or directly on the foil-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes. At about 15 minutes, check the bacon and flip poppers with tongs if you want extra crispiness. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
If bacon crisps too fast before jalapenos soften, tent loosely with foil and continue baking. For milder poppers, remove all seeds and membranes. You can prepare poppers ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes to keep bacon crispy. Air fryer option: cook at 375°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jalapeno popper
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0.5
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 9.5
- Saturated Fat: 3.5
- Carbohydrates: 1.5
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 5.5
Keywords: jalapeno poppers, bacon wrapped, cream cheese appetizer, easy appetizer, party snack, spicy snack