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Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers combine creamy cheese, spicy peppers, and crispy bacon for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing appetizer. Perfect for parties, game days, or any fun gathering!
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Bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers make the perfect spicy, cheesy, and smoky appetizer! Each jalapeño is stuffed with cream cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, and baked to perfection. They’re ideal for parties, game days, or anytime you want a crowd-pleasing snack. These poppers disappear fast, so make plenty!
This recipe is easy to make, with a detailed guide below for every step. You’ll find step-by-step photos and directions, along with pro tips and tricks to ensure success. Plus, we answer the most frequently asked questions about making these irresistible poppers.
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These bacon wrapped stuffed jalapenos take only 30 minutes to make and bring a deliciously spicy kick to any gathering. Creamy, cheesy filling and crispy bacon create the ultimate flavor combo that’s hard to resist. Perfect for parties, game days, or potlucks, these poppers make any occasion a little more exciting. Try them at home for a simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer everyone will love!
Ingredients
What you'll need to make Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers:
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, room temperature
- ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon of onion powder
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 (8-ounce) bag of Mexican-style four-cheese blend (I used Kraft brand finely shredded)
- 12 (medium-sized) jalapeño peppers, sliced in half with seeds and veins removed
- 24 pieces of thin-sliced bacon*
* Note: Using thin-sliced bacon is a must for this recipe. Thick-sliced bacon just doesn’t crisp up nearly as well. You can use low-sodium bacon, smoky bacon, or regular bacon, just make sure it is thin-sliced.
Also, if your peppers are on the small size, then you can cut your pieces of bacon in half to wrap each popper. You’ll want to avoid having too much bacon wrapped over itself as it won’t properly crisp.
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers by swapping out ingredients and adding tasty extras! These simple changes make your poppers uniquely delicious. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
Add Herbs: Mix in fresh chives or cilantro for an herby twist that adds color and flavor to each popper.
Substitute Cream Cheese: Try goat cheese or ricotta for a different creamy texture in your bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers.
Add Shredded Cheese: Mix in shredded cheddar or pepper jack for an extra cheesy and flavorful filling in each popper.
Substitute Bacon: Use prosciutto or turkey bacon for a different smoky flavor in your jalapeno cream cheese poppers.
Pro Tip
Make sure that you wash your hands very well after handling the raw jalapeños. Do not touch your face or eyes.
You can use food prep gloves if your skin is very sensitive to the oils in the peppers that cause the stinging/burning.
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips and tricks below to make perfect bacon jalapeño poppers. Let’s get started and make this crowd-pleasing appetizer!
FIRST STEP: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line two large-rimmed baking trays with a piece of aluminum foil. Place an oven-safe baking rack (one that fits inside the baking tray) over the top of the foil. Set aside.
SECOND STEP: In a large bowl, cream together the cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes or until no lumps remain.
THIRD STEP: Add the shredded Mexican cheese blend and mix on low just until all the cheese has been fully incorporated.
FOURTH STEP: Fill each jalapeño half with about one tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture.
FIFTH STEP: Once you have filled all the jalapeños with cheese, you can wrap each one with a single slice of bacon.
Make sure that it covers the entire jalapeño with as little overlap as possible. Try to start, and end your wrap on the back side of the jalapeño popper so that when you place it on the baking rack, the end pieces are on the bottom.
Avoid having too much bacon wrapped around itself, or your bacon will not crisp well.
Pro Tip
You can make these with a toothpick inserted through the piece of bacon and the jalapeño. This will keep the bundles together and make it easier for guests to pick up their appetizers.
SIXTH STEP: Place poppers, cheese-filled side facing up, onto the prepared baking tray in a single layer.
Pro Tip
Some jalapeño peppers are on the small side (mine were about 3 inches long) so you may get more than 24 poppers out of this recipe if your jalapeño peppers are not as big.
SEVENTH STEP: Place the trays of bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to allow the cream cheese to firm back up.
This helps to keep the cream cheese from oozing out of the poppers when baked.
EIGHTH STEP: Bake for 25 minutes.
Pro Tip
Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your poppers as the suggested cooking time approaches.
NINTH STEP: Turn your oven to broil, and broil for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to let the bacon crisp up. Keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly on the broil setting.
TENTH STEP: Allow the bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers to cool slightly before plating and serving.
How To Serve Jalapeno Poppers Wrapped In Bacon
Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers bring bold flavors to any occasion! Serve them up for parties, cozy family gatherings, or seasonal celebrations. They’re a versatile treat that pairs well with all kinds of dishes.
- Game Day Snack: These jalapeno bacon poppers are perfect for Super Bowl Sunday or any game day, offering a spicy, cheesy, and savory bite everyone loves. Pair them with chicken drumsticks or loaded nachos to complete your game day spread.
- Family Gatherings: Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers bring flavor and fun to family dinners or holiday gatherings. Serve them with a cream cheese dip or a veggie platter for balance.
- Summer Barbecues: These poppers shine at summer BBQs, adding a smoky kick to your grilled spread. Pair with burgers, corn on the cob, or fresh coleslaw for a delicious summer feast.
Why You'll Love This Recipe For Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
This baked jalapeno popper recipe is more than just an appetizer—it's a crowd-pleasing favorite for several delicious reasons:
- Bold Flavor Combination: The smoky bacon wraps around spicy jalapeños filled with creamy, melted cheese, creating an irresistible balance of flavors. Each bite brings a mix of spicy, savory, and creamy goodness that keeps readers coming back.
- Perfect Party Food: These poppers add excitement to any event, from casual get-togethers to special celebrations. They’re easy to eat, fun to share, and never fail to impress guests with their flavorful kick.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Everyone enjoys the crispy bacon and cheesy filling, making these poppers a universal favorite. They’re the ultimate party snack that bridges age gaps and satisfies every craving!
Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers aren’t just tasty—they’re a must-have snack that brings everyone together!
Cooking FAQ
How spicy are bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers?
The spice level depends on the jalapeños. Removing seeds and membranes reduces heat, while leaving them in keeps things extra spicy!
Can I use pre-cooked bacon for these poppers?
For best results, use raw bacon, so it cooks and crisps up perfectly around the poppers in the oven.
How do I keep the filling from spilling out?
Don’t overfill the jalapeños, and press the cheese mixture firmly inside. Wrapping tightly with bacon also helps!
Do I need to par-bake the jalapeños before adding the filling?
No, baking them raw with the filling and bacon works best, giving a slightly tender, perfectly roasted pepper.
These tips ensure your bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers turn out delicious every time!
Serving FAQ
How should I serve bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers at a party?
Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing, and serve them hot for the best flavor.
Can I serve bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers at room temperature?
Yes, they taste great even after cooling, though serving them warm highlights the creamy filling and crispy bacon.
Are bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers a good appetizer for outdoor events?
Absolutely! These poppers hold up well outdoors and make an ideal, hand-held snack for casual gatherings.
What size portions should I plan for guests?
Plan for 3-4 poppers per person, especially for gatherings, since these spicy, cheesy bites go fast!
Storage FAQ
Follow the tips and directions below for optimal storage of your bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers. From making them ahead to reheating, we’ve got all your storage questions covered!
Can I prepare bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the poppers without baking and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
What's the best way to store leftover bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers?
Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh for up to two days.
Can I freeze bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers?
Yes, freeze assembled but unbaked poppers in a single layer, then transfer to a container for up to one month.
How do I reheat bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving to keep the bacon crisp.
More Bacon Wrapped Appetizers
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers combine creamy cheese, spicy peppers, and crispy bacon for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing appetizer. Perfect for parties, game days, or any fun gathering!
Did you try this recipe?Let our readers know how it turned out by Leaving a Review!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces Mexican style four-cheese blend ((I used Kraft brand finely shredded))
- 12 medium-sized jalapeño peppers (sliced in half with seeds and veins removed)
- 24 pieces thin-sliced bacon
DIRECTIONS
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Line two large rimmed baking trays with a piece of aluminum foil. Place an oven-safe baking rack (one that fits inside the baking tray) over the top of the foil. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes or until no lumps remain.
- Add the shredded Mexican cheese blend and mix on low just until all the cheese has been fully incorporated.
- Fill each jalapeño half with about a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture.
- Once you have filled all the jalapeños with cheese, you can wrap each one with a single slice of bacon. Make sure that it covers the entire jalapeño with as little overlap as possible. Try to start, and end your wrap on the back side of the jalapeño popper so that when you place it on the baking rack, the end pieces are on the bottom.
- Place poppers, cheese-filled side facing up, onto the prepared baking tray in a single layer.
- Place the trays of bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour or up to overnight, to allow the cream cheese to firm back up. This helps to keep the cream cheese from oozing out of the poppers when baked.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
- Turn your oven to broil, and broil for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to let the bacon crisp up. Keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly on the broil setting.
- Allow the bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers to cool slightly before plating and serving.
Notes
- Using thin-sliced bacon is a must for this recipe. Thick-sliced bacon just doesn’t crisp up nearly as well. You can use low-sodium bacon, smoky bacon, or regular bacon, just make sure it is thin sliced. Also, if your peppers are on the small size, then you can cut your pieces of bacon in half to wrap each popper. Avoid having too much bacon wrapped around itself or your bacon will not crisp well.
- Make sure that you wash your hands very well after handling the raw jalapeños. Do not touch your face or eyes. You can use food prep gloves if your skin is very sensitive to the oils in the peppers that cause the stinging/burning.
- You can make these with a toothpick inserted through the piece of bacon and the jalapeño. This will keep the bundles together and make it easier for guests to pick up their appetizers.
- Some jalapeño peppers are on the small side (mine were about 3 inches long) so you may get more than 24 poppers out of this recipe if your jalapeño peppers are not as big.
- Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your poppers as the suggested cooking time approaches.
Nutrition
Calories: 74kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.001g | Cholesterol: 19mg | Sodium: 142mg | Potassium: 41mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 265IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 73mg | Iron: 0.1mg
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Comments
Debbie White says
Excellent recipe. Thank you!