Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Highlighted under: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are a delightful appetizer that combines the heat of jalapeños with the savory goodness of bacon and creamy cheese filling.
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The combination of spicy jalapeños, smoky bacon, and creamy cheese creates an irresistible treat that’s hard to resist!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfect balance of spicy and savory flavors
- Crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch
- Easy to prepare and always a hit at parties
The Perfect Party Appetizer
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Their combination of spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese, and crispy bacon makes them irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a game day, a barbecue, or a holiday party, these poppers will be a highlight on your appetizer table. Guests will rave about them, and you'll love how easy they are to prepare.
These poppers are not only delicious but also versatile. You can adjust the level of spiciness by leaving some seeds in the jalapeños or by adding more heat through spices. Additionally, the cheese filling can be customized with your favorite ingredients, such as herbs, spices, or different types of cheese. This flexibility allows you to cater to various tastes and preferences, making them suitable for any occasion.
Tips for the Best Jalapeño Poppers
To ensure that your Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers turn out perfectly, choose large, firm jalapeños. They should be bright green and free from blemishes. When preparing them, be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from the oils in the peppers, which can cause irritation. If you prefer a milder flavor, removing all the seeds and membranes will significantly reduce the heat.
For an even more decadent treat, consider adding additional fillings like crumbled bacon, cooked sausage, or even diced vegetables to your cheese mixture. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a fun twist to the traditional recipe. Experimentation can lead to delightful surprises that will impress your guests.
Serving Suggestions
These poppers are best served hot and fresh from the oven. Pair them with a cool dipping sauce such as ranch, sour cream, or a zesty cilantro-lime crema to complement the spiciness of the jalapeños. A refreshing beverage, such as iced tea or a light beer, can also balance the heat, making for a well-rounded appetizer experience.
For a festive presentation, arrange the poppers on a colorful platter garnished with fresh herbs or slices of lime. Not only does this enhance the visual appeal, but it also provides a hint of brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the dish. Your guests will appreciate the attention to detail!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious poppers:
Ingredients
- 12 large jalapeños
- 12 slices of bacon
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers:
Prepare the Jalapeños
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.
Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
Stuff the Jalapeños
Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously.
Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon, ensuring they are completely covered. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
Bake
Place the wrapped jalapeños on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.
Let the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Storage and Reheating
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This will help retain the crispiness of the bacon while ensuring that the cheese is melty and delicious.
Alternatively, you can freeze these poppers before baking. Just prepare them up to the wrapping stage, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for longer storage. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutritional Information
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers, while indulgent, can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Each popper offers a satisfying combination of protein from the cheese and bacon, alongside the vitamins and minerals found in jalapeños. They are perfect for a party snack or a fun family meal.
For those watching their calorie intake, consider reducing the amount of bacon or opting for turkey bacon as a lighter alternative. You can also experiment with low-fat cream cheese or add more vegetables to the filling to enhance the nutritional profile without sacrificing flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the jalapeños and filling in advance. Just wrap them in bacon and bake them when you're ready to serve.
→ What can I serve with jalapeño poppers?
They are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with ranch dressing or a spicy dipping sauce for added flavor.
→ Are there any alternatives to bacon?
Yes, you can use turkey bacon or even a plant-based bacon alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
→ How spicy are these poppers?
The spice level depends on the jalapeños used. Removing the seeds and membranes reduces the heat significantly.
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are a delightful appetizer that combines the heat of jalapeños with the savory goodness of bacon and creamy cheese filling.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 12 poppers
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 12 large jalapeños
- 12 slices of bacon
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously.
Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon, ensuring they are completely covered. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
Place the wrapped jalapeños on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g