Description
These Jalapeno Poppers are spicy, cheesy bites wrapped in crispy bacon, perfect as a flavorful American appetizer or party snack. Cream cheese and shredded cheddar blend with garlic and smoked paprika for a rich filling inside fresh jalapeño halves, all baked until bubbly and golden.
Ingredients
Scale
Jalapeno Poppers
- 12 fresh jalapeños, halved lengthwise and seeded
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
- Toothpicks (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the cheese filling: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated into a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Stuff the jalapeños: Take each jalapeño half and generously spoon the cheese mixture inside, filling each cavity evenly but without overstuffing to avoid spilling during cooking.
- Wrap with bacon: Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a half slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary to keep the bacon in place while baking. Arrange them seam side down on the prepared baking sheet to maintain their shape.
- Bake the poppers: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese filling is bubbly and slightly golden on top.
- Optional finishing step: For extra crispy bacon, switch your oven to broil and broil the poppers for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Cool and serve: Remove the poppers from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving to allow the cheese to set and avoid burns.
Notes
- Wear gloves when handling raw jalapeños to prevent skin irritation from the chili oils.
- Broiling for the last 1–2 minutes enhances bacon crispiness but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- You can cook these Jalapeno Poppers in an air fryer at 375°F for 12–15 minutes for an alternative crisp texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
