These Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are the perfect party snack! Stuffed with cream cheese and spices, they are crunchy, creamy, and just the right amount of spicy.
Who doesn’t love a bit of bacon? I just can’t resist these tasty bites—they disappear from the plate in seconds. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for extra fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jalapeño Peppers: Choose firm, fresh jalapeños for the best flavor. If you’re sensitive to heat, you can also use banana peppers, which are milder.
Cream Cheese: This gives the poppers creaminess. Neufchâtel cheese is a lower-fat alternative that works well too. You can also use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
Cheddar Cheese: I recommend sharp cheddar for a burst of flavor, but feel free to mix it up with pepper jack or mozzarella for different tastes.
Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch. Turkey bacon is a leaner substitute, but it may not get as crispy. If you’re vegetarian, consider using vegan bacon alternatives.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Jalapeños Without the Heat Overload?
To control the spiciness, it’s all about how you handle the jalapeños. Start by cutting them in half lengthwise and removing the seeds and white membranes inside—the membranes hold most of the heat.
- Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
- After slicing, rinse the jalapeños under cold water to wash away excess heat and seeds.
This technique ensures you enjoy that delicious flavor without the overwhelming spice. Happy cooking!
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 cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives for filling
- Toothpicks (optional, for securing bacon)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 20–25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes to whip up these delightful snacks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). To make cleanup easier later, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Jalapeños:
Next, wash the jalapeños and carefully slice them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to remove the seeds and membranes. This step is important as it helps reduce the heat; remember to wear gloves to avoid any skin irritation!
3. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, add the chopped green onions for an extra flavor boost. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
4. Stuff the Jalapeños:
Now it’s time to stuff those jalapeño halves! Fill each half generously with the cream cheese mixture, pressing it in gently to make sure it stays put.
5. Wrap with Bacon:
Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño. If you want, you can secure the bacon in place with a toothpick, but this is optional. Place the wrapped jalapeños seam side down on your prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake Them Up:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. You’re looking for crispy bacon and tender jalapeños, so keep an eye on them!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re finished baking, take your delicious poppers out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and watch them disappear!
Enjoy your crispy, creamy, perfectly spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers! Perfect for parties, game days, or just a fun snack at home!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese pairs well, you can also use pepper jack for a spicier kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Feel free to get creative with your cheese blends!
How Can I Make These Poppers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare these poppers a day in advance! Stuff and wrap the jalapeños, then cover them and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven cold.
What Should I Do with Leftover Poppers?
Leftover poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes to crisp them up again!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! To add more heat, leave some seeds and membranes in the jalapeños while preparing. You can also mix hot sauce into the cream cheese filling or top the poppers with sliced jalapeños before baking!