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Crispy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers with Cream Cheese

bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers with cream cheese are a quick and easy appetizer that combines smoky bacon, creamy cheese, and spicy jalapeños for a crowd-pleasing snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium fresh jalapeño peppers
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (full-fat recommended)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
  • 12 slices bacon (thick-cut preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch of salt, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and, if using, place a wire rack on top.
  2. Wearing gloves, slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes. Remove all seeds for less heat or leave some for more kick.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Stir until smooth and well blended.
  4. Using a spoon or small scoop, fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture without overfilling.
  5. Take one slice of bacon and wrap it snugly around each stuffed jalapeño half. Trim bacon strips if needed and secure the end underneath the popper to prevent unraveling.
  6. Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños on the wire rack over the baking sheet (or directly on parchment if not using a rack), spacing them about an inch apart.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Check at 15 minutes and rotate the pan or tent poppers with foil if some pieces brown faster.
  8. Optional: For extra crispy bacon, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.
  9. Let the poppers rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation. Use a wire rack for crispier bacon. You can assemble ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, adding a few extra minutes to bake time. For milder poppers, remove all seeds and membranes. Broil at the end for extra crispiness but watch closely to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon wrapped, cream cheese, appetizer, snack, game night, easy recipe, spicy, finger food