These bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are the perfect, crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering. They offer a wonderful balance of spicy, creamy, and smoky flavors.
Author:Anya Bennett
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:24 poppers
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
12 large jalapeño peppers
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped cooked bacon (optional, for filling)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
12 thin slices bacon
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Carefully slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a spoon or small knife to remove the seeds and white membranes. Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin.
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chopped bacon (if using), garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture evenly into the hollowed-out jalapeño halves. Gently press the filling down.
Wrap one thin slice of bacon around the outside of each filled jalapeño half, securing the filling.
Place the wrapped poppers seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the filling is bubbly.
Let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, you can sprinkle a little brown sugar over the bacon before baking.
If you prefer a smokier flavor, use applewood smoked bacon.
If you want to skip the cream cheese filling, you can just wrap the hollowed-out jalapeños in bacon and bake them.
Always handle jalapeños with care; wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.