Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are a tasty treat featuring spicy jalapeños stuffed with creamy cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon. They’re perfect for parties or game day!
Seriously, who doesn’t love bacon? These poppers are a fun way to add some heat to your snack table. I love making a big plate and watching them disappear as friends reach for more! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jalapeño Peppers: Fresh jalapeños bring heat and flavor. If you prefer milder poppers, consider using mini sweet peppers instead. They’re fruity and far less spicy!
Cream Cheese: This gives a smooth texture to the filling. If you’re vegan or dairy-free, swap it with a nut-based cream cheese or a mix of silken tofu and nutritional yeast for a similar creamy effect.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a tangy flavor, but you can use pepper jack for extra spice or mozzarella for a milder, gooey finish.
Bacon: While bacon adds great flavor, turkey bacon or even crispy prosciutto can work well if you’re looking for a lighter option. You could also skip it entirely for a vegetarian version!
How Do You Properly Prepare Jalapeños Without Making It Too Spicy?
Many people worry about the heat from jalapeños. Start by wearing gloves to avoid burning your skin. Cut the peppers in half and remove all seeds and membranes, where most of the heat resides. If you’re still concerned, taste a little of the raw pepper to gauge its spiciness before proceeding.
- Cut jalapeños in half and scrape out seeds and membranes with a spoon or knife.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the peppers.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook, for a total of around 35-40 minutes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying appetizer or party snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your poppers cook evenly and the bacon gets nice and crispy. For easy cleanup, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Jalapeños:
Put on some gloves to protect your hands from the spicy oils. Carefully slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membranes with a spoon or a knife to reduce the heat level according to your liking.
3. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir with a spoon or spatula until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Stuff the Jalapeños:
Take a spoonful of the cheese mixture and generously fill each jalapeño half. Don’t be shy; you want a good amount of that cheesy goodness in there!
5. Wrap with Bacon:
Take half a slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño. Secure with a toothpick if needed to keep the bacon in place.
6. Bake the Poppers:
Arrange the bacon-wrapped jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced out a bit. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
7. Let Them Cool and Serve:
Once done, take the poppers out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve them warm and watch them disappear!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and smoky Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use a Different Cheese for the Filling?
Absolutely! While cream cheese and cheddar are traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Pepper jack adds extra spice, while mozzarella gives a milder, gooey texture. Just choose a cheese that melts well!
What If I Want to Make These Poppers Vegetarian?
No problem! Simply skip the bacon and use a vegetarian crumbly topping or seasoning for added flavor. You can also wrap them in a vegetable-based alternative to bacon if you prefer.
How Can I Store Leftover Jalapeño Poppers?
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) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness!
Can I Make These Poppers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the jalapeños with the cheese filling and wrap them in bacon. Store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, which makes them perfect for party prep!
