Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers with Cheddar
Smoky bacon wrapped around spicy jalapeños filled with gooey cheddar cheese, perfect as a quick and easy party appetizer that is a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings (approximately 2 poppers per serving) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 medium fresh jalapeños, washed and halved lengthwise
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 12 thin bacon slices (center-cut recommended)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds and membranes. Rinse if milder heat is desired, then pat dry.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until creamy and well blended.
- Fill each jalapeño half with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture without overstuffing.
- Partially cook bacon slices on a baking sheet for 8-10 minutes until starting to brown but still pliable.
- Wrap each cheese-filled jalapeño half with a slice of partially cooked bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
- Arrange poppers on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbly, watching closely after 15 minutes to avoid burning.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Partially cooking bacon before wrapping prevents chewy texture. Use a wire rack for crispier bacon. Flip poppers halfway through baking if bacon isn’t crisping evenly. To keep warm, use low oven heat (around 200°F). Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 2 popp
- Calories: 150180
- Fat: 14
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 7
Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon wrapped, cheddar cheese, party appetizer, easy recipe, spicy snack