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Best Crispy Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers Recipe

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These crispy smoky bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a recreation of a beloved dive bar snack, featuring a creamy, smoky filling wrapped in thick-cut bacon for a shatteringly crisp texture. Perfect for game day or any gathering, they deliver bold flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium-sized jalapeño peppers, firm and evenly shaped
  • 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 12 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild), optional
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives or green onions, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire cooling rack on top.
  2. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon or melon baller to scoop out the seeds and white membranes. For milder poppers, scrape thoroughly; for more heat, leave some membrane intact.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and shredded cheddar (if using). Mix with a rubber spatula until smooth and evenly combined.
  4. Using a small spoon, fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture. Do not overstuff; leave a little room. Smooth the tops with the back of the spoon.
  5. Take one slice of thick-cut bacon and wrap it around each filled jalapeño half, starting at one end and spiraling around, overlapping slightly. Tuck the end of the bacon under the wrap to secure it. If needed, use a toothpick to hold it in place. Place each wrapped popper on the wire rack, seam side down.
  6. Bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, flip each popper carefully using tongs. Bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and dark golden brown.
  7. Optional: If the bacon is not as crispy as desired, switch the oven to broil for 1 to 2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  8. Remove the poppers from the oven and let them rest on the rack for 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped chives or green onions over the top. Serve warm.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature cream cheese and thick-cut bacon. The wire rack is essential for crispy bacon all around. If you don’t have a rack, flip the poppers halfway through and drain the grease. To make ahead, assemble completely and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking; add 2-3 minutes to baking time. For freezing, assemble and freeze unbaked; bake from frozen at 400°F for 35-40 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon-wrapped, crispy, smoky, game day appetizer, party snack, gluten-free, low-carb

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/best-crispy-smoky-bacon-wrapped-jalape-n-o-poppers-recipe/