There’s something truly magical about the combination of bacon and cheese, especially when paired with the spicy kick of jalapenos. I still remember the first time I tried Savory Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers at a friend’s gathering. The way the crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and the heat from the jalapenos melted together was simply irresistible. Now, I make these poppers all the time—whether for a family movie night, a game day snack, or a simple treat when I want something both easy and flavorful. If you’ve never made these before, you’re in for a treat.
These Savory Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers is not only delicious, but it’s also quick to prepare and packs in some great flavor and spice, all while being a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love Savory Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers:
Savory Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers are more than just a tasty snack; they’re a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the crispiness of the bacon, while the heat from the jalapenos adds just the right amount of spice. What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to make, especially for beginners. Instead of deep-frying, which can be tricky, these poppers are baked, making them a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. You can prepare them ahead of time, and they’re guaranteed to be the hit of any party. Whether you’re looking for an appetizer for a gathering or just a quick and delicious snack, these poppers deliver on all fronts.
Ingredients:
- 12 fresh jalapeno peppers
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 12 slices bacon
- Toothpicks (for securing bacon)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (for dipping)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Cut the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Wear gloves or wash your hands thoroughly after handling jalapenos, as they can be spicy and cause discomfort if you touch your face.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well combined.
- Fill each jalapeno half with the cream cheese mixture.
Wrap each stuffed jalapeno half with a slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. - Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers on the wire rack on the baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapenos are tender.
- Serve hot with barbecue sauce for dipping.
Beginner Tips and Notes:
- Overcooked veggies: If the jalapenos become too soft, they can still be used in a dip, or you could add more cheese and bacon to mask the texture.
- How to check if the bacon is crispy: Since all ovens cook differently, check the bacon after about 20 minutes. If it’s not quite as crispy as you like, leave it in for another 5 minutes, but be sure to check it every couple of minutes to avoid burning.
- Avoiding soggy bacon: To ensure the bacon crisps up properly, avoid using thick-cut bacon, as it can take longer to cook. Thin-sliced bacon crisps up perfectly in the oven.
- Prepping ahead: You can prepare the poppers up to 8 hours in advance. Simply fill and wrap the jalapenos, cover them, and refrigerate. When ready, just bake them as directed.
Serving Suggestions:
Savory Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers pair wonderfully with a cool, creamy dip to balance the heat. Try serving them with ranch dressing, sour cream, or even guacamole for a fresh contrast. For a complete appetizer spread, serve them alongside other finger foods such as buffalo wings, antipasto skewers, or chips and salsa. If you prefer a heartier meal, these poppers would also be great with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore the crispiness of the bacon.
Conclusion:
These Savory Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers are a fun and easy snack that everyone will love. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! We can’t wait to hear about your experience with these crowd-pleasing poppers.
FAQs:
1. Can I make Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and stuff the jalapenos, wrap them in bacon, and store them in the fridge for up to 8 hours before baking. This makes it easy to prep in advance for parties.
2. How do I adjust the heat level in Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers?
To make them spicier, leave some seeds and ribs in the jalapenos when removing them. For a milder version, be sure to remove all seeds and ribs. You can also choose milder peppers, like banana peppers, as a substitute.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?
Yes, feel free to swap out cheddar cheese for other options like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack if you prefer a different flavor. Just ensure it melts well for the creamy filling.
More Recipe Suggestions:
Bacon-Wrapped Maple Glazed Scallops
Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Tomato Mozzarella
Tajín Chicken Jalapeno Corn Caesar Salad
Savory Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapeno peppers
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 12 slices bacon
- Toothpicks for securing bacon
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Cut the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Wear gloves or wash your hands thoroughly after handling jalapenos, as they can be spicy and cause discomfort if you touch your face.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well combined.
- Fill each jalapeno half with the cream cheese mixture.
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeno half with a slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
- Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers on the wire rack on the baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapenos are tender.
- Serve hot with barbecue sauce for dipping.
