Bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers are a spicy, crispy treat! They’re made with fresh jalapeños stuffed with cream cheese and wrapped in savory bacon. What’s not to love?
These little bites are like party magic! I can’t resist grabbing a few more than I should. Pair them with your favorite dip for an extra kick, because more flavor is always better! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jalapeño Peppers: Fresh jalapeños give the perfect heat! For less spice, try using mini sweet peppers instead. They won’t pack the same punch but will still be delicious!
Cream Cheese: This is key for that creamy filling. If you want a lighter option, consider using low-fat cream cheese or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but feel free to swap in pepper jack for extra spice or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Bacon: Traditional pork bacon is great, but turkey bacon is a healthier alternative if you want to cut down on fat. Just keep an eye on cooking times as it can crisp differently.
How Do I Get the Bacon Perfectly Crispy?
Crispy bacon is crucial for the best jalapeño poppers! Here are some tips to ensure you achieve that perfect crisp:
- Use thick-cut bacon for extra texture and flavor.
- Place the jalapeños on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This allows heat to circulate around the bacon, helping it crisp up evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give each popper some space to ensure they cook evenly.
- Broil the poppers for a few minutes at the end for an extra crisp if needed, but watch closely to avoid burning.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
For the Wrapping:
- 12 slices of bacon (one slice per jalapeño, halved if needed)
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Estimated Time:
You’ll need about 15-20 minutes for preparation and around 25 minutes of baking time. So, in total, you can expect about 40-45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). To make clean-up a breeze, line a baking sheet with foil and then place a wire rack on top. This helps the bacon get nice and crispy as it cooks!
2. Prepare the Jalapeños:
Wash the jalapeño peppers and carefully slice them in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon or knife to remove the seeds and membranes. Remember to wear gloves to protect your hands from the spicy oils!
3. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Blend the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. It’s going to be creamy and delicious!
4. Stuff the Jalapeños:
Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously. You want them nice and full for that scrumptious cheesy bite!
5. Wrap with Bacon:
Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño half. If necessary, secure it with toothpicks to keep the bacon in place. This way, it won’t unwrap during cooking!
6. Bake the Popper:
Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños on the wire rack set on the baking sheet. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. You want the bacon to be crispy and the jalapeños tender.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once finished, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. If you feel fancy, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These poppers are best enjoyed warm! Serve them as an appetizer or snack and watch as everyone devours them! They’re spicy, creamy, and absolutely delicious!
Enjoy these smoky, creamy, and spicy bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers that burst with flavor in every bite!
Can I Make These Jalapeño Poppers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed jalapeños ahead of time; just wrap them in bacon and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, bake them straight from the fridge, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Temperature Should I Bake These At?
Bake the jalapeño poppers at 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for getting the bacon crispy while ensuring the jalapeños become tender. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures may vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through, to maintain that crispy texture.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and cream cheese are a classic combo, you can experiment with different cheeses. Pepper jack adds a nice kick, while mozzarella will give a milder taste. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference!