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Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

Bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers are smoky, spicy bites with a crispy exterior and gooey cheese filling. The process involves stuffing fresh jalapeños with seasoned cream cheese, wrapping them in thick-cut bacon, and baking until crispy and bubbling. This dish combines heat, smokiness, and a satisfyingly crunchy texture, perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon preferably smoky and meaty
  • 4 large jalapeños fresh, firm, and bright
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened for easy mixing
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste chopped chives (optional) for added freshness
  • to taste hot sauce (optional) adds extra flavor
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Toothpicks
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray with cooking spray.
  2. Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes with a teaspoon for a milder heat or leave them in for more spice.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with garlic powder, smoked paprika, chopped chives, hot sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
  4. Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeño half generously with the seasoned cream cheese, pressing gently to ensure it stays in place.
  5. Cut each slice of bacon in half and wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a piece, securing with a toothpick to hold the bacon in place.
  6. Arrange the bacon-wrapped poppers on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart for even crisping.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, rotating the tray halfway through, until the bacon is golden and crispy, and the filling is bubbling.
  8. If desired, turn on the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end to get extra crispy bacon—watch closely to prevent burning.
  9. Remove the poppers from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to set and prevent burns.
  10. Carefully remove the toothpicks, then serve the poppers hot, enjoying the smoky, spicy, and crispy bites with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle additional chopped chives or a dash of hot sauce before serving. To make ahead, assemble the poppers and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Reheat in a warm oven for best texture.