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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a quick and easy homemade snack featuring a creamy filling of cream cheese and sharp cheddar, wrapped in smoky bacon and baked to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium-sized fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 12 thin-cut bacon strips
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top if available.
  2. Wearing gloves, slice jalapeños in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds and membranes. Rinse and pat dry thoroughly.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
  4. Spoon the cheese mixture evenly into each jalapeño half, about a heaping teaspoon per half.
  5. Cut bacon strips in half if needed and wrap each stuffed jalapeño half tightly with bacon. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
  6. Arrange bacon-wrapped poppers on the wire rack or directly on the foil-lined baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through if not using a wire rack, until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbly. Optionally broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness, watching closely.
  8. Let poppers rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow cheese to set.

Notes

Dry jalapeños thoroughly to avoid soggy bacon. Use thin-cut bacon for best crispiness. Wrapping bacon tightly prevents curling. Remove toothpicks before serving. Can broil briefly for extra crispness. Store leftovers in airtight container refrigerated up to 3 days or freeze after baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon wrapped, cream cheese, cheddar, appetizer, snack, party food, easy recipe, spicy snack