Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are a fun snack that packs a punch! Spicy jalapeños are stuffed with creamy cheese and then wrapped in crispy bacon. What’s not to love?
These little bites are perfect for parties or just a cozy night in. I mean, bacon and cheese? Yes, please! They are always a hit, and I can’t resist grabbing a few!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jalapeño Peppers: These are the star of the dish! For less heat, you can use mini sweet peppers instead, which will give you a similar look without the spice. For more heat, try using serrano peppers!
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds creaminess. If you’d like a lighter option, you can go for Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but maintains a creamy texture.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its rich flavor. You could substitute with pepper jack cheese for an extra kick, or use mozzarella for a milder, melty choice.
Bacon: Classic bacon gives a smoky crunch. Turkey bacon is a great lower-fat option, although it might not get as crispy. If vegetarian, try a veggie bacon or skip it altogether!
How Do I Get the Bacon Extra Crispy?
Getting that bacon perfectly crispy can be a challenge! Here are some tips to ensure you achieve great results:
- Use thin-cut bacon, as it crisps up more easily than thick-cut.
- Place the jalapeños on the baking rack set over a sheet pan to let grease drip off.
- Check during baking; if the bacon isn’t crispy enough, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch it closely to avoid burning!
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Jalapeño Poppers:
- 10 medium jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 10 slices of bacon (sliced in half if large)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20-25 minutes for baking, making a total of around 35-40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy snack that will impress your friends and family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to make clean-up easier later on.
2. Prepare the Jalapeños:
Wash the jalapeños and slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the seeds and membranes with a spoon to reduce their heat and create space for the delicious filling. If you prefer, feel free to wear gloves to keep your hands from getting spicy!
3. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix these ingredients well until they’re nice and creamy.
4. Stuff the Jalapeños:
Now, take those jalapeño halves and fill them generously with the cheese mixture. Don’t be shy—make them nice and full!
5. Wrap with Bacon:
Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño half. If needed, use a toothpick to secure the bacon in place.
6. Arrange and Bake:
Place the wrapped jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet, with the bacon seam side facing down. This helps them cook evenly. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese filling is bubbling.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once done, remove the jalapeño poppers from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. Garnish them with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers warm and watch them disappear in no time! Enjoy the delightful blend of creamy, spicy, and smoky flavors!
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! To reduce the heat, make sure to remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. For more spice, consider leaving some seeds or using hotter peppers like serranos.
Can I Make These Poppers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the jalapeños and fill them with cheese a day in advance. Just wrap them in bacon right before baking to ensure they stay crispy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the bacon gets crispy again.
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead?
Sure! Turkey bacon is a great lower-fat alternative, though it may not get as crispy as regular bacon. Just keep an eye on them while baking to ensure they cook thoroughly!
