Bacon wrapped jalapeno poppers are the ultimate crowd-pleaser-spicy, creamy, and wrapped in crispy bacon. If you’ve ever wondered how do I cook bacon wrapped jalapeno poppers to get that perfect balance of heat, cheese, and smoky bacon, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make these irresistible appetizers at home, with tips to make them easy and delicious every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Jalapeno peppers (12 medium-sized, about 3-4 inches long)
– Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened for easy mixing)
– Cheddar cheese (1 cup, freshly grated for best melt)
– Bacon slices (12 slices, thin cut works best)
– Seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, smoked paprika (optional)
– Toothpicks (to secure the bacon)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (about 200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and spray it with cooking spray for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Jalapenos
Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the seeds and ribs. This reduces the heat slightly and creates space for the filling. (Wear gloves if you want to avoid the spicy oils on your skin.)
3. Make the Cheese Filling
In a bowl, combine:
– Softened cream cheese
– Grated cheddar cheese
– Garlic powder
– Onion powder
– Salt and pepper
– Smoked paprika (optional for a smoky kick)
Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Fill the Jalapenos
Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling it just to the top. Avoid overfilling to prevent the cheese from spilling out during baking.
5. Wrap with Bacon
Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise. Wrap a half slice of bacon around each stuffed jalapeno half. Secure the bacon with a toothpick to hold it in place.
6. Bake Until Crispy
Place the bacon-wrapped jalapenos on the prepared baking sheet or on a wire rack set over a baking sheet (this helps the bacon crisp evenly). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and browned and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Pro Tips for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
– Par-cook the bacon: For extra crispy bacon without overcooking the jalapenos, you can bake the bacon slices for about 10-20 minutes first, then wrap them around the peppers and bake again. This step renders some fat and speeds up the final cooking.
– Use thin bacon: Thick-cut bacon can stay chewy and may not crisp up well in the time it takes to cook the peppers.
– Don’t forget the toothpicks: They keep the bacon snug around the jalapenos during baking.
– Make ahead: You can assemble the poppers a few hours or even a day before baking. Keep them refrigerated and bring to room temperature before cooking.
– Freeze for later: Assemble and freeze the poppers in a single layer. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
– Air fryer option: Preheat your air fryer to 325°F and cook the poppers for 12-14 minutes until bacon is crispy.
Serving Suggestions
These poppers are fantastic served hot right out of the oven. They pair beautifully with cool dips like ranch dressing or sour cream to balance the heat. They’re perfect for game day, parties, or anytime you want a tasty finger food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Easy to make: Just a few simple steps and ingredients.
– Baked, not fried: Less mess and healthier.
– Customizable: Add spices or swap cheddar for pepper jack for extra heat.
– Crowd-pleaser: They disappear fast at any gathering!
Bacon wrapped jalapeno poppers are a delicious blend of spicy, creamy, and smoky flavors that are surprisingly easy to make. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a platter of irresistible appetizers ready to impress your friends and family. Enjoy the perfect balance of heat and flavor with every bite!