Description
Easy, spicy, and creamy bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers that are perfect for game day. These appetizers are simple to make, crowd-pleasing, and feature a sharp cheddar and cream cheese filling wrapped in crispy thick-cut bacon.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 large jalapeno peppers (about 400g)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 8–10 slices thick-cut bacon
- 16–20 wooden toothpicks, soaked in water
- 2 stalks green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
- Wear gloves if desired. Wash and dry jalapenos, then slice them in half lengthwise. Scrape out seeds and white ribs using a small spoon or finger. Place halves cut-side up on the baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust consistency with a teaspoon of milk if too stiff or more cheese if too soft.
- Stuff each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, pressing gently to pack it tight. Do not overstuff.
- Wrap a slice of bacon around each stuffed jalapeno half, securing the end with a soaked wooden toothpick. Overlap bacon if necessary to cover filling completely.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until bacon is crispy and golden brown. Check at 20 minutes; add 2-3 minutes if needed.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes to allow bacon to crisp further. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm with ranch or blue cheese dip.
Notes
Soak wooden toothpicks in water for 10-15 minutes before use to prevent burning. Use thick-cut bacon for better texture and to avoid burning. For less heat, remove all seeds and white ribs from jalapenos. These can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the fridge before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 popper
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0.5
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 10
Keywords: jalapeno poppers, bacon wrapped jalapenos, football party snacks, game day food, appetizers, spicy snacks, easy appetizers, crowd pleaser