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Crispy Baked Cream Cheese Jalapeño Poppers Wrapped in Bacon

crispy baked cream cheese jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy baked jalapeño poppers combine creamy cream cheese, spicy jalapeños, and smoky bacon for a perfect party snack that’s quick and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (about 100 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 12 slices bacon, thin or regular cut
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove all seeds and membranes. Pat dry with paper towels.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and well blended. Add a teaspoon of milk or cream if the filling is too stiff.
  4. Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling completely but not overflowing.
  5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with one slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking after 15 minutes. If bacon crisps too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last 5 minutes.
  7. Remove from oven and let cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Remove seeds and membranes to control heat level. Let poppers cool slightly before eating to avoid burns. If bacon crisps too fast, tent with foil. Can prep ahead and refrigerate before baking. For a lighter version, use dairy-free cream cheese and turkey bacon.

Nutrition

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