Crispy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
These crispy bacon wrapped jalapeno poppers are stuffed with a creamy blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and spices, then baked to golden perfection. They make a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for any gathering.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 poppers (12 jalapenos halved) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 12 medium fresh jalapenos, washed and halved lengthwise
- 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup (100 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 12 slices bacon, thin or regular cut
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeno lengthwise and scoop out seeds and membranes to reduce heat (about 10 minutes).
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy (2-3 minutes).
- Fill each jalapeno half generously with the cream cheese mixture using a spoon or small spatula, keeping the filling level with the edges (about 10 minutes).
- Cut bacon slices in half if needed to fit the jalapeno halves. Wrap each stuffed jalapeno half with a bacon slice, securing with a toothpick if necessary (about 10 minutes).
- Place poppers on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or directly on the baking sheet if no rack is available. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until bacon is crispy and golden and filling is bubbling.
- Let poppers cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving to allow filling to set slightly.
Notes
Use gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid irritation. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end but watch carefully to avoid burning. If bacon browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil. Thin or regular-cut bacon crisps best. Can be made ahead by prepping and stuffing jalapenos, then wrapping bacon before baking. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat in oven to maintain crispiness. For a milder version, substitute jalapenos with mini sweet peppers. Vegetarian option: skip bacon and coat stuffed jalapenos in panko breadcrumbs before baking or air frying.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 poppers
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 16
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 7
Keywords: bacon wrapped jalapeno poppers, jalapeno poppers, bacon appetizer, cream cheese poppers, easy appetizer, party food, spicy snack