How spicy are bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers?

The spiciness depends on how you clean the jalapeños. Remove the seeds and membranes to make them milder. For more heat, keep some seeds in.

Can I make bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them up to 24 hours in advance. Just assemble and store them in the fridge. Let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking.

What are some alternative filling options?

You can mix things up with different fillings. Try shredded chicken, pulled pork, or crab meat. Goat cheese or a mix of cheeses is great for vegetarians. Add herbs like chives or cilantro for extra flavor.

Are bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers keto-friendly?

Yes, they're a good keto option. They're low in carbs and high in fat. Just use full-fat cream cheese and avoid breadcrumbs.

What's the best way to prevent the bacon from unraveling?

Use toothpicks to keep the bacon in place. Insert them through the bacon and jalapeño. Soak wooden toothpicks in water before grilling to prevent burning.

Can I make these poppers in an air fryer?

Definitely! Air fryers make the bacon crispy and the filling creamy. Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway.

How do I handle jalapeños without irritating my skin?

Wear disposable gloves when handling jalapeños. Avoid touching your eyes or face. Wash your hands well with soap and water after removing the gloves.

What are the best dipping sauces for jalapeño poppers?

Ranch dressing is a classic choice. But you can try chipotle mayo, blue cheese, or sweet chili sauce. A tangy option is sour cream with lime juice and cilantro. Choose something that complements the poppers' flavors.

5 Secrets: Perfect Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers (Crispy Heaven!)

Name: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers: Ultimate Game Day Recipe (Easy & Crispy)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 large fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 12 slices thin-cut bacon; 24 wooden toothpicks; Fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Description

These bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers are the ultimate game day appetizer featuring creamy cheese filling wrapped in crispy bacon. Perfect balance of spicy jalapeños, rich cream cheese, and smoky bacon creates an irresistible crowd-pleasing snack.

Ingredients

Scale

12 large fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

12 slices thin-cut bacon

24 wooden toothpicks

Fresh chives for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Wearing gloves, cut jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes using a small spoon.

3. In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until smooth.

4. Using a small spoon, fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, mounding slightly.

5. Cut bacon slices in half crosswise. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with bacon, securing with a toothpick.

6. Place wrapped poppers on prepared baking sheet, bacon seam-side down.

7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bacon is crispy and golden brown.

8. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives if desired.

Notes

For milder poppers, remove all seeds and white membrane. For spicier poppers, leave some seeds.

Can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated. Let come to room temperature 15 minutes before baking.

For grilling: Cook on medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.

Air fryer option: Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.

Soak wooden toothpicks in water before grilling to prevent burning.

Prep Time: 20
Cook Time: 25
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 poppers
Calories: 145
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 380mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg