Description
Smoky, spicy, and creamy appetizers that are perfect for game day. These bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are easy to make, make-ahead friendly, and impossible to ignore.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 large jalapeño peppers
- 8 ounces (225g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (100g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 12–15 strips thin-sliced bacon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Wash and pat dry jalapeños. Slice them in half lengthwise.
- Using a paring knife or spoon, scrape out the seeds and white membranes from the jalapeño halves.
- In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, filling about 3/4 full.
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a strip of thin-sliced bacon, securing the end by tucking it under or overlapping. Use a toothpick if necessary.
- Place poppers on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bacon is crispy and golden brown and peppers are tender. Flip halfway through for even crisping.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set slightly.
Notes
Use thin-sliced bacon for best results as it cooks faster and gets crispier. If you prefer less heat, remove all seeds and membranes. For make-ahead prep, assemble and freeze on a baking sheet for 2 hours, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to cooking time. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 popper
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 8
Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon wrapped jalapeños, tailgate food, game day snacks, appetizers, spicy snacks, make ahead appetizers