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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Popper Bites: Easy Party Appetizer

crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño popper bites - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño popper bites are the ultimate party appetizer, featuring a creamy cheese filling wrapped in crispy bacon. Quick and easy to make with just five ingredients, they’re perfect for game day or any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium fresh jalapeños
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position the rack in the middle. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
  2. Put on disposable gloves. Cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scrape out the seeds and white membranes. You should have 24 jalapeño halves total.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and well combined.
  4. Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture. Don’t overfill—aim for about a heaping teaspoon per half.
  5. Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise. Take one bacon half and wrap it tightly around each filled jalapeño half, starting at one end and overlapping slightly as you go. Secure the end by tucking it under the wrap.
  6. Place the wrapped poppers on the wire rack, seam-side down. Leave a little space between each popper for air circulation.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the poppers rest on the rack for 5 minutes.
  9. Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy while warm.

Notes

Wear disposable gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid capsaicin burns. For milder poppers, remove all seeds and membranes. For extra heat, leave some seeds. You can assemble these up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate; add about 5 minutes to baking time if starting from cold. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on a wire rack in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F for 4 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño popper, bacon wrapped, party appetizer, game day snack, keto appetizer, gluten-free appetizer