Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are the perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and smoky flavors, making them a crowd-favorite appetizer for any gathering.
Whether you’re grilling at a summer BBQ, preparing game-day snacks, or making a quick party appetizer, these poppers are incredibly easy to prepare and always disappear fast!
The jalapeños are stuffed with a rich, cheesy filling, wrapped in crispy bacon, and either baked or grilled to perfection. The result? A mouthwatering bite with a crunchy, smoky bacon shell, a creamy, cheesy interior, and just the right amount of heat.
You can also customize the filling by adding different cheeses, herbs, or even cooked sausage for extra flavor. These poppers are low-carb, keto-friendly, and naturally gluten-free, making them a delicious option for almost any diet.
Plus, they can be prepped ahead of time, so they’re ideal for stress-free entertaining!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Party Appetizer – A guaranteed hit at any gathering.
- Simple & Delicious – Easy to make with just a few ingredients.
- Customizable – Adjust the filling, spice level, or cooking method to your preference.
- Crispy Bacon Perfection – The bacon adds smoky flavor and a crisp texture.
- Keto & Low-Carb Friendly – Naturally fits into a low-carb diet.
Ingredients
- 10 fresh jalapeños, halved and seeds removed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- 10 slices bacon, cut in half
- 2 tbsp chopped chives (optional, for garnish)
- Toothpicks (to secure the bacon)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Jalapeños
- Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. If you prefer less heat, rinse them under cold water.
2. Make the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well until smooth.
3. Stuff the Jalapeños
- Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. Don’t overfill, as the cheese will expand slightly while cooking.
4. Wrap with Bacon
- Wrap each jalapeño popper with a half slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Cook the Poppers
- Oven Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the poppers on a baking rack over a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the bacon is crispy.
- Grill Method: Preheat grill to medium heat. Place poppers directly on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crisp.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Let the poppers cool slightly, then garnish with chopped chives. Serve warm with ranch dressing or a dipping sauce of choice.
Expert Tips
- Crispier Bacon Tip: Partially cook the bacon for a few minutes before wrapping to ensure a crispier texture.
- Spice Level Control: For a milder popper, soak the jalapeños in cold water for 30 minutes before stuffing.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the poppers in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes for an extra crispy finish.
- Flavor Boost: Add crumbled cooked sausage or chopped green onions to the filling for an extra punch.
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients
- 10 jalapeños halved and deseeded
- 8 oz cream cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- 10 slices bacon halved
- Toothpicks if needed
Instructions
- Slice jalapeños in half and remove seeds.
- Mix cream cheese, cheddar, Monterey Jack, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
- Wrap each with bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Oven: Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Grill: Cook over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Serve warm with dipping sauce.
