If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines heat, creaminess, and a satisfying crunch, look no further than these Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers. These bite-sized delights are not just easy to make, but they’re also packed with flavor, making them the perfect dish for any gathering or game day. Whether you’re a fan of spicy foods or just love anything wrapped in bacon, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
- Creamy and Spicy: The combination of softened cream cheese and sharp cheddar cheese creates a creamy filling that perfectly balances the heat from the jalapenos.
- Bacon Wrapped Goodness: Everything tastes better with bacon, right? The smoky, crispy bacon not only adds flavor but also creates a satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Simple Ingredients: You don’t need a long list of ingredients to make these poppers. With just a few basic items, you can whip up this delicious appetizer in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 Jalapeno Peppers: Choose peppers that are about 3-4 inches long. This size is ideal for holding the cheesy filling and wrapping with bacon.
- 1 (8-ounce) Block Cream Cheese, Softened: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to make mixing easier.
- 1 Cup Cheddar Cheese, Shredded: Sharp cheddar works best for a more pronounced flavor.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Onion Powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Pepper: For a little extra kick.
- 12 Slices Bacon: Standard-cut bacon works best for wrapping around the peppers. Avoid thick-cut bacon, as it may not crisp up properly.
- Cooking Spray: To ensure the poppers don’t stick to the baking sheet.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil and lightly coat it with cooking spray. This will make cleanup easier and prevent the poppers from sticking.
2. Prepare Jalapenos: Carefully cut each jalapeno in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scoop out the seeds and ribs. Removing these parts reduces the heat, but if you like your poppers extra spicy, you can leave a few seeds in.
3. Make Cheese Filling: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
4. Fill Jalapenos: Using a spoon or a small spatula, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture. Don’t overfill, as the cheese will expand slightly as it bakes.
5. Wrap with Bacon: Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise. Wrap a piece of bacon around each stuffed jalapeno half, securing it with a toothpick if necessary. The bacon should completely encase the cheese filling.
6. Bake: Arrange the bacon-wrapped jalapenos on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are evenly spaced. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and browned to your liking.
7. Serve: Remove the jalapeno poppers from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed hot, right out of the oven, ideally with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 198 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 362mg
- Potassium: 113mg
- Sugar: 1g
- Vitamin A: 505IU
- Vitamin C: 16.6mg
- Calcium: 89mg
- Iron: 0.3mg
Tips for Success
- Handling Jalapenos: Wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid getting the spicy oils on your skin, which can cause irritation.
- Bacon Crispiness: If you prefer extra crispy bacon, you can place the poppers under the broiler for the last few minutes of baking. Just be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the poppers ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This is a great time-saver for parties.
Variations
- Add Protein: Mix in some cooked, crumbled sausage or ground beef with the cheese filling for a heartier appetizer.
- Different Cheeses: Try using pepper jack cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Sweet & Spicy: Add a touch of honey or brown sugar to the cheese filling for a sweet contrast to the spicy jalapenos.
Conclusion
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers are a guaranteed hit at any party or gathering. They’re the perfect combination of creamy, spicy, and crunchy, making them an irresistible treat that’s sure to disappear fast. Whether you’re serving them for game day, a BBQ, or just as a snack, these poppers will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy!