Description
Crispy, creamy, and spicy jalapeno poppers wrapped in thick-cut bacon, filled with a rich mixture of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and smoky spices. A classic, make-ahead friendly game day appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 large jalapeno peppers
- 8 oz (225g) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup (100g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 12–15 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Water (for soaking toothpicks)
- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
- Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- Optional: 1 teaspoon hot sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Wash jalapenos thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Slice each pepper in half lengthwise.
- Using a small spoon or melon baller, scoop out seeds and membranes. Place hollowed peppers cut-side up on a plate.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. Fold in optional bacon bits or hot sauce if using.
- Fill each jalapeno half tightly with the cheese mixture. Do not overfill.
- Soak toothpicks in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning.
- Wrap each stuffed pepper with a slice of bacon, tucking the end under to secure. Use a toothpick to hold the bacon in place if necessary.
- Place poppers on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until bacon is crispy and golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh chives if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid skin irritation. Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling. Soak toothpicks in water to prevent them from burning in the oven. These can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the fridge before baking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 poppers
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 12
Keywords: jalapeno poppers, bacon wrapped jalapenos, game day snacks, tailgate food, appetizer, spicy snacks, cream cheese filling, party food