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Crispy Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers: Easy 30-Minute Appetizer

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These crispy smoky bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a quick and easy 30-minute appetizer, perfect for game days, potlucks, or last-minute gatherings. Made with simple ingredients like cream cheese, cheddar, and bacon, they deliver a perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and spicy flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (for dipping sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (for dipping sauce)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (for dipping sauce)
  • Pinch of salt (for dipping sauce)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, and place a wire rack on top if using.
  2. Prep the bacon: Lay bacon slices on a plate and microwave for 2-3 minutes until they start to render fat but are still flexible. Pat dry and cut each slice in half crosswise.
  3. Put on disposable gloves. Cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scrape out seeds and white membranes.
  4. Make the filling: In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
  5. Fill the peppers: Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture, level with the cut edge.
  6. Wrap with bacon: Take a half-slice of par-cooked bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño half diagonally, overlapping slightly. Tuck ends under the pepper.
  7. Arrange on the baking sheet with seam side down, leaving space between each popper.
  8. Bake for 18-22 minutes, checking at 15 minutes. Bacon should be deep golden brown and crispy, filling bubbly.
  9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  10. Make dipping sauce: Stir together sour cream, lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.

Notes

Par-cook bacon for crispiness. Dry peppers thoroughly to avoid steam. Use thin-cut bacon for best results. For milder poppers, remove all seeds and membranes. For extra crispiness, broil for last 1-2 minutes. Can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon wrapped, appetizer, game day, party food, spicy, creamy, easy, 30-minute

Find it online: https://evabake.com/crispy-smoky-bacon-wrapped-jalape-n-o-poppers-easy-30-minute-appetizer/