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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers with Cream Cheese

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers with cream cheese are a quick and easy party snack that balances spicy, creamy, and crunchy flavors. Perfect for gatherings, they feature a luscious cream cheese filling wrapped in crispy bacon.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1012 thin-cut bacon slices
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1012 medium to large fresh jalapeños
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If available, place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet for even bacon crisping.
  2. Wear gloves. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and carefully remove seeds and membranes with a small spoon or scoop.
  3. In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
  4. Spoon the cheese mixture generously into each jalapeño half, mounding slightly but not overfilling.
  5. Cut each bacon slice in half. Wrap one half slice snugly around each filled jalapeño half, starting at the base and spiraling up. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
  6. Place the poppers on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bacon is crisp and cheese filling is bubbling. Turn halfway through baking for even crisping if desired.
  7. Let the poppers rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the cheese filling to set.
  8. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation. Use thin-cut bacon for best crispiness. If bacon crisps before cheese melts, tent with foil. You can prepare ahead and refrigerate before baking. For less heat, remove all seeds or use mini sweet peppers. Air fryer can be used at 375°F for about 15 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon wrapped, cream cheese, party snacks, appetizer, spicy, easy recipe