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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers: Best Easy Appetizer

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These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers are the perfect appetizer for game day, barbecues, or any gathering. With a creamy, cheesy filling and shatteringly crisp bacon, they’re easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium fresh jalapeno peppers (about 3–4 inches long)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives for garnish
  • Optional: Ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Position the rack in the center of the oven. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
  2. Wearing gloves, cut each jalapeno in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scrape out the seeds and white membranes. Set the pepper halves aside on a plate.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and smooth.
  4. Using a small spoon or butter knife, fill each jalapeno half with the cream cheese mixture. Don’t overfill—the filling should be level with the cut edge of the pepper.
  5. Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise. Take one half-slice and wrap it around the middle of a filled jalapeno half, overlapping the ends slightly on the bottom. Place the wrapped popper seam-side down on the wire rack. Repeat with remaining peppers and bacon.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and browned. Start checking at 18 minutes.
  7. Optional: If the bacon isn’t as crispy as you’d like, turn on the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
  8. Let the poppers rest on the wire rack for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped chives if desired, and serve with ranch dressing or sour cream.

Notes

For best results, use thin-cut bacon and a wire rack to ensure crispy bacon. Let cream cheese come to room temperature for smooth filling. If making ahead, assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate; add 5 minutes to baking time. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat on a wire rack in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes.

Nutrition

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