Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
Equipment
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Toothpicks (optional)
- Baking sheet or grill
- Parchment paper (optional)
Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapeno peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt or to taste
- 12 slices of bacon thin-cut works best
- Toothpicks optional
Instructions
- Prep the Jalapenos
- Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. For extra heat, leave some seeds in.
- Prepare the Filling
- In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until smooth.
- Stuff the Jalapenos
- Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, making sure they are filled generously but not overflowing.
- Wrap with Bacon
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeno with a slice of bacon, securing the bacon with toothpicks if needed to hold it in place.
- Cook
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the bacon-wrapped jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Serve
- Let the poppers cool for a couple of minutes, then remove the toothpicks. Serve with dipping sauces such as ranch or blue cheese if desired.
Notes
- Adjusting Spice: If you prefer less heat, be sure to remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. For extra spice, leave more seeds in.
- Bacon Tip: For even crispier bacon, partially cook the bacon slices before wrapping them around the jalapenos.
- Cheese Variations: You can experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, goat cheese, or pepper jack for added flavor.
- Grill Option: If using a grill, cook the poppers over medium heat until the bacon crisps up, adding a smoky flav or to the dish.
Bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers are a mouth-watering combination of spicy jalapenos, creamy cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a fun snack, these poppers bring together flavors that are sure to impress. Below, we’ll walk through the key steps to make the best bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers, along with expert tips to perfect them!
Ingredients for Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
Making bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers is simple and requires only a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Jalapeno peppers: The star ingredient. Choose fresh, firm jalapenos for the best flavor and crunch.
- Cream cheese: Provides a smooth, creamy filling to balance the heat of the jalapenos.
- Bacon: Thinly sliced bacon works best for wrapping, giving a crispy texture once baked.
- Cheddar cheese: Optional, but it enhances the flavor and adds extra gooeyness to the filling.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to taste. You can also add a dash of paprika for a smoky touch.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
1. Prep the Jalapenos
- Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and membranes. The seeds can make the poppers extremely spicy, so be sure to clean them well unless you prefer an extra kick.
2. Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and any other cheeses you’re using. Stir in seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Blend everything until smooth.
3. Stuff the Jalapenos
- Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling it generously. Be sure not to overstuff, as the cheese might spill out when baking.
4. Wrap with Bacon
- Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeno half. Secure with toothpicks if necessary. Ensure the bacon wraps tightly to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.
5. Bake or Grill
- Place the bacon-wrapped jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or on a grill. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve
- Once baked, remove the toothpicks, and let the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve them with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Tips for the Perfect Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer milder poppers, remove all the seeds and membranes. For a spicier kick, leave some seeds in.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, goat cheese, or even a spicy queso can give your poppers a unique flavor.
- Bacon Tip: Partially cook the bacon before wrapping it around the jalapenos. This will ensure the bacon crisps up perfectly without overcooking the peppers.
- Grilling Option: If you’re grilling, set your grill to medium heat and cook the poppers directly on the grill grates for a smoky flavor.
Why You’ll Love Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
Bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers offer the perfect balance of flavors. The heat from the jalapenos, combined with the richness of the cheese and the crispiness of bacon, makes for a truly irresistible snack. They are also highly customizable, allowing you to adjust ingredients and spice levels based on your preferences.
Conclusion
Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a delicious treat, Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers are sure to be a hit. By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy a savory snack that combines heat, creaminess, and crunch in every bite. Remember, with a bit of creativity, you can adjust the recipe to suit your taste perfectly.
