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Crispy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

bacon wrapped jalapeno poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon wrapped jalapeno poppers are a bold, smoky, and creamy grilling snack that’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for crowd-pleasing appetizers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium-sized fresh jalapeno peppers
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 100 g)
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Toothpicks or bamboo skewers for securing bacon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Jalapenos (10 minutes): Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and scrape out the seeds and membranes. Set aside on a plate.
  2. Make the Filling (5 minutes): In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
  3. Stuff the Jalapenos (10 minutes): Using a small spoon, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, avoiding overfilling.
  4. Wrap with Bacon (5 minutes): Wrap one slice of bacon around each stuffed jalapeno half and secure with a toothpick or bamboo skewer. Cut bacon in half lengthwise if slices are wide.
  5. Preheat the Grill (5 minutes): Heat grill to medium heat, about 350°F (175°C). For charcoal, wait until coals are covered with white ash.
  6. Grill the Poppers (15-20 minutes): Place poppers seam side down on the grill grate. Grill with lid closed, turning every 5 minutes until bacon is crispy and jalapenos are softened.
  7. Remove and Rest (5 minutes): Remove poppers with tongs and let rest on a plate for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid burns. Use thin-cut bacon for better crisping. Pre-soak toothpicks in water to prevent burning. Maintain medium grill heat and turn poppers every 5 minutes for even cooking. If bacon cooks faster than jalapenos soften, move poppers to a cooler grill area or lower heat. Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeno poppers, bacon wrapped, grilling snack, appetizer, spicy snack, easy recipe, crowd-pleaser