Jalapeño Popper Pigs In A Blanket are a fun twist on the classic snack! Imagine tasty mini sausages wrapped in flaky dough, with a spicy kick from jalapeños and creamy cheese.
These little bites are perfect for parties or movie nights! I love how easy they are to make; just roll, bake, and snack away. They disappear faster than I can grab one! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños give the perfect kick! If you’re looking for less heat, you could use green bell peppers. For more spice, consider serrano peppers.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. You can substitute with a dairy-free cream cheese if you’re looking to make it vegan or lactose-free.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice flavor, but feel free to mix things up with pepper jack for extra spice or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Bacon: I love using crispy bacon for its smoky flavor. Turkey bacon is a good alternative for a lighter version, or try a veggie bacon if you want to skip meat.
Crescent Roll Dough: Store-bought is super convenient, but homemade dough can also work if you have the time. Look for biscuit dough for a thicker wrap!
How Do You Prepare Jalapeños Without Risking Your Hands?
Preparing jalapeños can be tricky due to their oils, but there’s an easy way to handle them safely:
- Always wear gloves while cutting and seeding. This protects your skin!
- If you don’t have gloves, use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and membranes.
- Make sure to wash your hands immediately after, and avoid touching your face, especially your eyes!
These tips help ensure you enjoy your cooking experience without irritation. Happy cooking!
How to Make Jalapeño Popper Pigs In A Blanket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Jalapeños:
- 8 fresh jalapeño peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded
For the Cheese Filling:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Bacon:
- 8 slices cooked bacon, cut in half
For the Dough:
- 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 oz)
- Cooking spray or butter (for baking sheet)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep, plus 12-15 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll be enjoying these delicious bites in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Jalapeños:
Carefully cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membranes. It’s a good idea to wear gloves for this step to avoid skin irritation.
3. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. If you like a bit of extra flavor, mix in the garlic powder and smoked paprika. Stir until everything is well blended and creamy.
4. Stuff the Jalapeños:
Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. Make sure to distribute it evenly so every bite is cheesy and delicious!
5. Wrap in Dough:
Take the crescent roll dough and cut it into strips that are wide enough to wrap around the stuffed jalapeño halves. Wrap each jalapeño half with a strip of dough. Then, place half a slice of bacon on top of each one, gently pressing it into the dough.
6. Bake Them Up:
Place the wrapped jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet with the bacon side facing up. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, they’re ready to enjoy! These jalapeño popper pigs in a blanket are the perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and crispy.
Enjoy these tasty bites as a fantastic appetizer for parties or movie nights! 🌶️🥓
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is fantastic, feel free to mix it up with pepper jack for extra heat, or mozzarella for a milder flavor. A blend of cheeses can also add a nice depth of flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon works well, or you can use veggie bacon for a meat-free version. Just make sure it’s cooked beforehand to achieve that crispy texture!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the jalapeño poppers a few hours ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate them, then bake them right before serving. They may need an extra minute or two in the oven if they’re cold from the fridge.
How Do You Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and the dough is crispy!
