These bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a tasty treat! They feature spicy jalapeños filled with cream cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon. Yum!
Honestly, who can resist that combo? The spicy kick and smoky flavor make them a crowd favorite. I love serving them during game nights—always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jalapeño Peppers: Fresh jalapeños give the best flavor and heat. If you want milder poppers, use sweet mini peppers instead. They are colorful and still delicious!
Cream Cheese: This creates a creamy filling. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based cream cheese alternative. It blends well with spices just like regular cream cheese.
Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds a nice cheesy flavor. Feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra spice. Alternatively, you can use vegan shredded cheese for a dairy-free option.
Bacon: Regular bacon is great, but turkey bacon is a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, try wrapping with plant-based bacon or even prosciutto for a gourmet touch.
How Do I Ensure My Jalapeños Are Just the Right Spiciness?
The spice level of jalapeños can vary, so it’s essential to taste a tiny piece before using them. If they’re too hot, remove more seeds and membranes, as that’s where most of the heat comes from. If you prefer milder flavors, go for the sweet mini peppers as mentioned earlier.
What’s the Best Way to Wrap Bacon Around the Peppers?
Wrapping the bacon may seem tricky, but here’s a simple method:
- Cut the bacon slices in half for perfect coverage.
- Start at one end of the jalapeño and wrap the bacon snugly around, slightly overlapping as you go.
- Use a toothpick to secure if needed, especially at the ends.
Make sure to wrap them tight, so the bacon cooks evenly and gets crispy. Enjoy making these yummy treats!
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cut in half
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20-25 minutes of baking time. In total, you can enjoy these delicious poppers in roughly 40-45 minutes, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will help with easy cleanup later!
2. Prepare the Jalapeños:
Next, take your fresh jalapeños and slice them in half lengthwise. Be careful while doing this! Use a spoon to gently scoop out the seeds and membranes inside. If you want to protect your hands from the heat, wearing gloves is a great idea.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic (if you’re using it), smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. It should look creamy and delicious!
4. Fill the Jalapeños:
Now, it’s time to fill those jalapeño halves! Spoon the creamy cheese mixture generously into each half, making sure they’re well-filled.
5. Wrap Them Up:
Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño. Make sure to cover as much as you can. If needed, secure the bacon with a toothpick to hold everything together.
6. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the wrapped jalapeños on your prepared baking sheet, making sure the seam side of the bacon is facing down. This helps keep it wrapped tight during baking.
7. Bake to Perfect Crispiness:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. The bacon should be crispy and the cheese filling should be bubbly and slightly browned. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done, take the poppers out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color before serving. Enjoy your crispy, creamy, and spicy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers warm!
Can I Use Different Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar pairs well, you can swap it for Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for a spicy kick, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if preferred. Each option will bring its unique flavor to the dish!
How Can I Make These Poppers Less Spicy?
If you’re looking to reduce the heat, simply remove more seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. You can also use sweet mini peppers instead, which give a nice crunch without the spiciness!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and the bacon regains its crispness.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the poppers in advance, fill them with the cheese mixture, and wrap them in bacon. Just cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake them right before serving for best results!
