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Best Easy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers Recipe

bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers are the perfect appetizer for game day, backyard barbecues, or any gathering. With a creamy, cheesy filling and salty, crunchy bacon, they’re surprisingly simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • Toothpicks, soaked in water for 10 minutes

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet and set aside. If not using a rack, line the baking sheet with aluminum foil.
  2. Wearing disposable gloves, cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scrape out the white membranes and seeds.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
  4. Fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture, level with the cut edge.
  5. Wrap each filled jalapeño half with one slice of bacon, starting at one end and wrapping diagonally. Secure the end with a soaked toothpick.
  6. Place the wrapped poppers on the wire rack, seam side down if possible, leaving space between each.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and golden brown and the peppers are tender.
  8. Remove from the oven and let cool on the rack for 5 minutes.
  9. Remove toothpicks and serve warm.

Notes

Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes for a smooth filling. Par-cook bacon slightly (30-45 seconds in microwave) if you want extra crispiness. For milder poppers, remove all membranes and seeds thoroughly. For extra heat, mix some chopped jalapeño into the filling. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers, easy appetizer, game day snack, keto, gluten-free