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Easy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Cream Cheese Poppers Recipe for Crowds

bacon-wrapped jalapeño cream cheese poppers - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers filled with a creamy cheese blend, perfect for parties and crowd-pleasing appetizers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 medium-sized fresh jalapeños, firm and bright green
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (about 115 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1012 slices bacon, cut in half
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Small handful fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top if available.
  2. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds and membranes using a small spoon. Wear gloves or wash hands thoroughly afterward.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and chopped herbs if using. Mix until smooth.
  4. Spoon the cheese mixture evenly into each jalapeño half without overfilling.
  5. Cut bacon slices in half if not done yet. Wrap one half slice around each stuffed jalapeño half, securing with a toothpick.
  6. Arrange poppers on the wire rack or baking sheet, spaced apart. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.
  7. Let poppers cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use a wire rack for crispier bacon or flip poppers halfway through baking if no rack is available. Remove seeds and membranes to reduce heat. Wear gloves when handling jalapeños. Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end if bacon isn’t crisping enough. Can prepare and fill jalapeños ahead, wrap bacon just before baking. Freeze on a tray before transferring to freezer bag for freezing.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon-wrapped, cream cheese, appetizer, party food, easy recipe, crowd-pleaser, spicy snacks