Save It A festive, spicy appetizer featuring jalapeños stuffed with creamy cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon& perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe is always a hit at holiday parties and brings a delightful kick that keeps everyone coming back for more
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 6 large fresh jalapeño peppers
- Dairy: 120 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened 60 g (2 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
- Meats: 6 slices thin-cut bacon, halved
- Spices & Pantry: 1/4 tsp garlic powder 1/4 tsp smoked paprika Pinch of salt Pinch of black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Slice jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes (wear gloves for safety).
- Step 3:
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 4:
- Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
- Step 5:
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a half slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
- Step 6:
- Arrange poppers on the prepared baking sheet, cheese side up.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 18 20 minutes, or until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbling.
- Step 8:
- Let cool 5 minutes before serving.
Save It My family loves gathering around to enjoy these poppers together during the holidays creating warm joyful moments
Notes
For extra flavor add finely chopped chives or green onions to the cheese mixture Serve with ranch or sour cream dip for added creaminess
Required Tools
Sharp knife Mixing bowl Spoon or spatula Baking sheet Parchment paper Toothpicks (optional) Gloves (recommended for handling jalapeños)
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese cheddar cheese) and may contain pork (bacon) Always check labels for gluten if using processed bacon or cheese Those sensitive to spicy foods should use caution
Save It Enjoy these poppers fresh and warm for the best experience and watch them disappear in minutes!
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I remove jalapeño seeds safely?
Wear gloves and carefully slice jalapeños lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out seeds and membranes to control heat levels.
- → Can I prepare jalapeño poppers ahead of time?
Yes, assemble them and keep refrigerated until baking within a few hours for best freshness and flavor.
- → What cheese works best for stuffing?
A combination of softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar provides creamy texture and sharp flavor.
- → How to ensure bacon stays crispy?
Wrap bacon tightly around filled jalapeños and bake on a lined sheet at 200°C until bacon crisps up evenly.
- → Are there flavor variations to try?
Try adding chopped chives or green onions to the cheese filling, or switch to turkey bacon for a lighter twist.
- → What dips pair well with these appetizers?
Cool dips like ranch or sour cream complement the spicy and savory flavors perfectly.