Crispy Smokehouse Bacon Jalapeño (Printable View)
Spicy jalapeños stuffed with creamy cheese, wrapped in crisp bacon, baked until golden.
# Ingredient List:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
12 medium jalapeños, stems removed, halved lengthwise, and seeded
02 -
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
03 -
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
04 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 -
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
06 -
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
08 -
12 slices thick-cut smokehouse bacon
→ For Assembly
09 -
Toothpicks, for securing bacon
# Preparation Steps:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Arrange an oven rack in the center position.
02 -
Slice each jalapeño lengthwise and carefully remove seeds and membranes. Pat the jalapeños dry using paper towels.
03 -
Combine softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
04 -
Spoon and spread the cheese mixture generously into each jalapeño half, smoothing the top with the back of the spoon.
05 -
Wrap each filled jalapeño half with one slice of thick-cut smokehouse bacon. Secure bacon with a toothpick if needed, ensuring the seam is on the underside.
06 -
Set the bacon-wrapped jalapeños, seam side down, on a wire rack placed over a rimmed baking sheet.
07 -
Transfer the tray to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time, until bacon is golden brown and crisp and filling is bubbly.
08 -
Allow poppers to rest for 5 minutes before serving for optimum texture and flavor.
# Supplementary Details:
01 -
For spicier poppers, leave some of the jalapeño membranes intact to retain heat.