Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are a fun and tasty treat! They are spicy jalapeños stuffed with cream cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon. What’s not to love?
When I make these, I can’t help but sneak a few before serving. They’re perfect for parties or a movie night—easy to share and so delicious! Just be careful, they’re pretty addictive! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jalapeño Peppers: Fresh jalapeños bring the heat and flavor. You can use mini bell peppers as a milder alternative if you’re looking for less spice.
Cream Cheese: This is essential for that creamy texture. For a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice tang. You could swap it out for pepper jack cheese for an extra kick or use mozzarella for a milder taste.
Bacon: Regular bacon gives a great flavor, but turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon could work well if you want a lighter or vegetarian option.
How Do I Make Sure My Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers Are Crispy?
Getting that bacon crispy is key for these poppers! Here’s how to ensure you get it just right:
- Use Thin Bacon: Opt for thin-cut bacon, which will crisp up faster than thick-cut.
- Positioning on the Pan: Place the jalapeños seam side down on the baking sheet to keep the bacon wrapped tightly.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: If they aren’t crispy enough, you can broil them for 1-2 minutes at the end—just watch closely to prevent burning!
These tips will help you serve perfectly crispy, delicious jalapeño poppers every time!
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh chopped parsley or chives
- Your favorite dipping sauce (like spicy ranch or hot sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of baking time. You’ll spend a little time mixing the cheese filling and preparing the jalapeños before they get all crispy in the oven. Total time is roughly 40-45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature to get the bacon crispy while keeping the cheese nice and melty. Don’t forget to line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to make cleanup easier!
2. Prepare the Jalapeños:
Wash the jalapeños thoroughly. Cut them in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and membranes. If you like it spicy, you might want to leave a few seeds behind; if you prefer milder flavors, take them all out.
3. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Stir until everything is smooth and well combined. This will be the creamy goodness that fills up those jalapeños!
4. Stuff the Jalapeños:
Take a spoon and generously fill each half of the jalapeño with the cream cheese mixture. Make sure they’re filled nice and full so you get plenty of flavor in every bite!
5. Wrap with Bacon:
Now for the fun part! Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño. If the bacon isn’t staying in place, use a toothpick to secure it. This bacon will become crispy and delicious while cooking!
6. Bake Them Up:
Place the wrapped jalapeños seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is all bubbly and perfect.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle and eat. If you want, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these tasty poppers warm with your favorite dipping sauce on the side. I like spicy ranch with mine, but feel free to use anything you love!
Enjoy your delicious, crispy, spicy bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers!
Can I Make These Jalapeño Poppers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the jalapeños and fill them with the cheese mixture up to a day in advance. Just cover them and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to wrap them in bacon and bake. When you’re ready, bake them as directed; you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What If I Can’t Handle Spice?
If you prefer a milder version, use sweet mini bell peppers instead of jalapeños. You can also deseed the jalapeños thoroughly, as most of the heat comes from the seeds and membranes. For an even milder option, consider using a mixture of cream cheese and a bit of sour cream to tone down the sharpness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover jalapeño poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to get them crispy again or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Use Any Other Fillings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with fillings. You can add cooked sausage, chopped green onions, or even switch up the cheeses—Pepper jack or Gouda can add a unique flavor twist!
