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Easy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers: Best Crispy Recipe

bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers - featured image

Crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers with a creamy, cheesy filling. Perfect for game day or any party, these are guaranteed to disappear fast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1215 fresh jalapeños, medium
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1215 slices thin-cut bacon
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: toothpicks, soaked in water for 10 minutes

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay bacon slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until just starting to render fat but still pliable. Remove and let cool on paper towels. Keep oven on.
  2. Wearing gloves, cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scrape out seeds and membranes. Place hollowed halves on a paper towel to absorb moisture.
  3. In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, and chopped chives. Mix until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture, level with the cut edge.
  5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a slice of par-cooked bacon, starting at one end and spiraling around. Secure with a soaked toothpick.
  6. Place a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet. Arrange wrapped poppers on the rack, leaving space between each. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until bacon is deeply golden and crispy and filling is hot and bubbly.
  7. Let poppers rest on the rack for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks or warn guests.

Notes

Par-cooking the bacon is essential for crispiness. Use a wire rack for even crisping. For milder poppers, remove all seeds and membranes thoroughly. For more heat, leave some seeds. Make-ahead: assemble up to 8 hours in advance and refrigerate. Reheat in oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers, crispy jalapeno poppers, game day appetizer, easy appetizer, spicy snack