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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Popper Bites

crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño popper bites - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño popper bites combine creamy cheese filling with spicy jalapeños and crispy bacon for a quick, crowd-pleasing snack perfect for parties or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium fresh jalapeños
  • 8 ounces (225 g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 12 thin-cut bacon strips
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh chives or green onions, finely chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scoop out seeds and membranes, adjusting for your heat preference.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  4. Spoon or pipe the filling evenly into each jalapeño half without overstuffing.
  5. Wrap each filled jalapeño half with a half strip of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
  6. Arrange the bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers on the prepared baking sheet with some space between each.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cream cheese filling is bubbly and slightly golden. If bacon browns too fast, lower oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
  8. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes to set the filling.
  9. Garnish with finely chopped fresh chives or green onions if desired and serve warm.

Notes

For extra crispy bacon, microwave strips for 30 seconds before wrapping but do not cook fully. Flip poppers halfway through baking for even crispness. Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Remove seeds for milder heat or keep some for spicier bites. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat best in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon wrapped, appetizer, party snack, spicy snack, cream cheese, easy recipe