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Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Jalapeño Poppers Wrapped in Bacon

crispy baked cream cheese jalapeño poppers wrapped in bacon - featured image

These crispy baked cream cheese jalapeño poppers wrapped in bacon balance heat and creaminess with an irresistible bacon crunch. Perfect for quick snacks, game nights, or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium fresh jalapeños, halved and deseeded
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or chives for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wearing gloves if possible, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds and membranes to control heat.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  4. Use a spoon or small scoop to generously fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture.
  5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a slice of bacon, tucking the end underneath to secure it. Cut bacon slices in half lengthwise if needed.
  6. Place the poppers on a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet. If no wire rack is available, line the baking sheet with parchment paper and place poppers directly on it.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bacon is crispy and golden brown, rotating the pan halfway through if needed.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes to allow filling to set.
  9. Garnish with chopped cilantro or chives if desired.
  10. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Using a wire rack helps bacon crisp evenly. Thin-cut bacon is best for wrapping and cooking evenly. Let cream cheese soften fully before mixing. Watch oven temperature to prevent burning. You can broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness. Prep jalapeños and filling ahead and refrigerate until baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon wrapped, cream cheese, appetizer, party food, baked jalapeños, spicy snack