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Best Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers on a Rustic Platter

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

The ultimate game-day appetizer that disappears fast! These Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers deliver the perfect trifecta of flavor: spicy fresh jalapeños, a creamy cheesy center, and crispy smoky bacon. Baked to perfection rather than fried, this version is easier to make and less greasy, yet every bite is packed with indulgent taste. Ready in 45 minutes, they are guaranteed to be the star of your next party, BBQ, or family gathering.

 

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 24 poppers

Ingredients

  • 12 large fresh jalapeño peppers
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 lb thin-cut bacon (about 12 slices), cut in half crosswise
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Peppers: Put on disposable kitchen gloves. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise, keeping the stem on one half for a rustic look if desired. Use a small spoon to scrape out the white membranes and seeds completely.
  2. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix with a spatula or hand mixer until smooth and well combined.
  3. Fill the Boats: Take each jalapeño half and generously fill it with the cheese mixture, mounding it slightly above the edges.
  4. Wrap with Bacon: Cut the bacon slices in half crosswise. Take one half-slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around each stuffed pepper, covering as much of the pepper and filling as possible. Secure the ends with a toothpick pushed through the center.
  5. Arrange for Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire cooling rack inside a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the poppers on the rack so they aren’t touching.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the bacon is crispy and browned, and the peppers are tender but not mushy.
  7. Optional Broil: If needed, turn on the broiler for the final 1-2 minutes to crisp the bacon further. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  8. Rest and Serve: Remove the toothpicks, sprinkle with fresh chives, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This prevents burnt mouths and allows the cheese to set slightly.

Notes

  • Heat Control: For milder poppers, scrape the white membranes thoroughly. For extra heat, leave a few seeds behind.
  • Make Ahead: You can assemble the poppers completely up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.
  • Air Fryer Option: Cook at 325°F for 10-12 minutes in a single layer, flipping halfway through.
  • Storage: Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness (the microwave will make them soggy).

Find it online: https://juicymeatrecipes.com/bacon-wrapped-jalapeno-poppers/