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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers feature a creamy, tangy cream cheese filling balanced with spicy jalapeños and smoky bacon, perfect for quick and easy snacks or party appetizers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium fresh jalapeño peppers
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and membranes unless you want extra heat. Place the halves cut side up on the baking sheet.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, black pepper, and cilantro. Stir until smooth and well blended.
  4. Stuff each jalapeño half generously with the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to overfill.
  5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a slice of bacon, spiraling it snugly around the filling and pepper. Trim excess bacon if needed.
  6. Place the wrapped poppers back on the baking sheet, spaced evenly and not touching.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through baking (around 12 minutes), use tongs to carefully flip each popper to crisp the bacon evenly on all sides.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness, watching closely to avoid burning.

Notes

Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Use softened cream cheese for smooth filling. Flip poppers halfway through baking for even bacon crispiness. Drain excess grease on paper towels if needed. Broil briefly at the end for extra crispiness but watch carefully to prevent burning. For a milder version, remove seeds and membranes or use mini sweet peppers. Substitute vegan cream cheese and turkey bacon for dairy-free and lighter options.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon-wrapped, cream cheese, appetizer, snack, party food, spicy, easy recipe