Description
Crispy, spicy, and budget-friendly bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers with a creamy cream cheese and cheddar filling. Ready in just 20 minutes, these are the perfect game day appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12–15 medium jalapeno peppers
- 8 ounces block cream cheese (full-fat, softened)
- 12–15 strips thick-cut bacon
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons green onions (chopped, optional)
- 1/4 cup crispy bacon bits (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 13×9 inch baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease.
- Wash and dry jalapenos. Slice each pepper in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scrape out seeds and white membrane (wear gloves).
- In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Stuff each jalapeno half with the cream cheese mixture.
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeno half with a strip of bacon, spiraling from end to end. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
- Place poppers seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until bacon is crispy and browned and peppers are tender.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Notes
Wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid skin irritation. For extra crispy bacon, use a wire rack on the baking sheet. These can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to restore crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 poppers
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Protein: 10
Keywords: tailgate snacks, bacon wrapped jalapenos, jalapeno poppers, game day food, easy appetizer, budget recipe, spicy snacks