Get ready to meet your new favorite appetizer: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers! These spicy, creamy, and crispy bites are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—perfect for game days, BBQs, or any gathering where snacks are the star.
We’re ditching the deep fryer and keeping things simple by baking or air frying these poppers until the bacon is golden and the cheese is irresistibly melty. Oh, and did we mention they’re super easy to make?
🛒 What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 12 large jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 slices bacon (cut in half)
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Tools:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or foil
- Sharp knife
- Spoon or piping bag
- Toothpicks (optional, but helpful)
Tip: Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation!
🔪 Prep Time: Let’s Get Poppin’
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and dry the jalapeños.
- Slice each one in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membranes.
- Mix the cream cheese, cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Cut bacon slices in half (crosswise).
🧀 Assemble the Poppers
- Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture—don’t overstuff!
- Wrap with bacon, tucking ends underneath or securing with toothpicks.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil and place the poppers cheese-side up.
🔥 Choose Your Cooking Method
Oven (Recommended):
- Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, until bacon is crisp and peppers are tender.
- Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for that extra crispy finish (keep an eye on them!).
Air Fryer:
- Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook in batches for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Grill:
- Preheat to medium-high.
- Place poppers cheese-side up.
- Grill for 8–10 minutes with the lid closed.
Each method gives a unique flavor—choose your favorite or mix it up!
🌶️ Make It Your Own: Fun Variations
- Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and sprinkle with buttery breadcrumbs.
- Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese, pepper jack, or even feta.
- Sweet & Spicy: Brush with honey or sprinkle brown sugar before baking.
- Flavor Fusion: Add chorizo to the filling for Mexican flair or basil and sun-dried tomatoes for an Italian twist.
🥣 Serve It Up
These poppers are best served hot, straight out of the oven. Add a side of ranch or blue cheese dip, garnish with cilantro and lime wedges, and serve with a cold drink like beer or margaritas.
Make-ahead tip: Assemble them up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Just bake when you’re ready!
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Use the oven or air fryer to bring back the crispiness.
- Freeze: Freeze unbaked poppers on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen (add 5–10 mins to bake time).
❓FAQs
Can I make them less spicy?
Yes! Remove all seeds and membranes, or use mini sweet peppers instead of jalapeños.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prep and stuff them ahead, then store in the fridge until ready to bake.
Can I freeze them?
Definitely. Freeze before baking for best results, then bake straight from frozen.
🎉 Final Thoughts
Whether it’s game day or just a snack attack, these bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers hit every mark—crispy, creamy, spicy, and totally addictive. They’re a surefire way to impress your guests (or just yourself)!
So roll up your sleeves, grab those peppers, and get ready to pop some serious flavor.