Get ready to transform your appetizer game with these irresistible Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Popper Halves - a mouthwatering sensation that combines creamy, spicy, and crispy in one epic bite! These crowd-pleasing poppers are not just a snack; they're a culinary adventure that will have your guests begging for the recipe. Whether you're hosting a game day party, looking for a show-stopping appetizer, or simply craving something wickedly delicious, these jalapeno poppers are guaranteed to be your new obsession.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 jalapenos, halved and seeded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to catch bacon grease and make cleanup easier.
- Carefully slice each jalapeno pepper in half lengthwise, using a sharp knife. Remove all seeds and white membranes using a small spoon to create a clean pepper half. Wear disposable gloves to protect your hands from jalapeno oils.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeno half generously with the cheese mixture, ensuring the filling is slightly mounded above the pepper's surface.
- Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise. Wrap each cheese-filled jalapeno half with a half slice of bacon, ensuring the bacon is wrapped snugly and covers most of the pepper.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers on the prepared baking sheet, placing them seam-side down to help the bacon stay in place during cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving, as the filling will be extremely hot.
- Transfer to a serving platter and serve warm as an appetizer or party snack. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley for added color and flavor.
Tips
- Always wear disposable gloves when handling jalapenos to prevent skin irritation from pepper oils.
- For less heat, remove all seeds and white membranes thoroughly from the peppers.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother filling.
- Use thick-cut bacon for better coverage and crispier results.
- Place poppers seam-side down on the baking sheet to prevent bacon from unraveling.
- Let poppers cool for 5 minutes after baking to prevent burning your mouth on hot filling.
- For extra flavor, experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack or adding crispy chopped chives.
- Use a piping bag for more uniform and neater cheese filling.
- If bacon isn't crisping enough, finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes (watch carefully to prevent burning).
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 55mg
