Description
Crispy, smoky, and creamy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers with a rich cheese filling. These easy-to-make appetizers are perfect for parties, budget-friendly, and can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12–15 large jalapeño peppers
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 packet ranch seasoning (optional)
- Toothpicks (for securing bacon)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease.
- Wear gloves and wash jalapeños. Slice peppers in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds and ribs using a paring knife or spoon.
- In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and garlic salt until smooth.
- Stuff each pepper half with the cheese mixture, leveling the top to prevent spilling.
- Cut bacon slices in half crosswise. Wrap one piece around each pepper half and secure with a toothpick.
- Brush the bacon lightly with melted butter.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes. Flip poppers halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.
- Cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow cheese to set and bacon to crisp further.
Notes
Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. For less heat, remove all seeds and ribs; for more heat, leave some in. Bacon should be thick-cut to prevent burning. These can be assembled the night before and refrigerated until ready to bake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 poppers
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Protein: 8
Keywords: bacon wrapped jalapeno poppers, appetizer recipe, party snacks, easy appetizers, spicy snacks, keto friendly, make ahead appetizers