Print

Crispy Firecracker Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers feature a creamy, spicy filling with a smoky seasoning blend, perfect for quick and memorable party snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium-sized fresh jalapeño peppers
  • 8 oz (225 g) softened full-fat cream cheese
  • 12 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat

Instructions

  1. Prep the Jalapeños (10 minutes): Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon or knife to carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes. Place the hollowed halves on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  2. Make the Filling (5 minutes): In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended. Add a pinch of cayenne if desired.
  3. Stuff the Jalapeños (5 minutes): Using a spoon, fill each jalapeño half generously with the cream cheese mixture without overfilling.
  4. Wrap with Bacon (5 minutes): Wrap one slice of bacon tightly around each stuffed jalapeño half. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
  5. Bake (20-25 minutes): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake poppers on the baking sheet for 20-25 minutes until bacon is crispy and golden. Check after 20 minutes to avoid burning.
  6. Rest and Serve (5 minutes): Remove from oven and let poppers cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Thick-cut bacon crisps better and holds the poppers well. Preheat oven to 400°F for best results. If bacon isn’t crisping enough, broil for last 1-2 minutes watching closely. Leftovers reheat best in oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon wrapped, party snacks, appetizer, spicy, creamy filling, firecracker, smoky, easy recipe