Save A festive, spicy appetizer featuring jalapeños stuffed with creamy cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon perfect for holiday gatherings.
This is a go-to recipe every holiday season that never fails to impress guests and family alike.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 6 large fresh jalapeño peppers
- Dairy: 120 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened, 60 g (2 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
- Meats: 6 slices thin-cut bacon, halved
- Spices & Pantry: 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, Pinch of salt, Pinch of black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Slice jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes (wear gloves for safety).
- Step 3:
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 4:
- Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
- Step 5:
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a half slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
- Step 6:
- Arrange poppers on the prepared baking sheet, cheese side up.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbling.
- Step 8:
- Let cool 5 minutes before serving.
Save My family laughs at how quickly these disappear at parties – a true crowd-pleaser!
Notes
For extra flavor, add finely chopped chives or green onions to the cheese mixture. Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter version. Serve with ranch or sour cream dip for added creaminess.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, mixing bowl, spoon or spatula, baking sheet, parchment paper, toothpicks (optional), gloves (recommended for handling jalapeños).
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, cheddar cheese) and may contain pork (bacon). Always check labels for gluten if using processed bacon or cheese. Those sensitive to spicy foods should use caution.
Save These poppers are a guaranteed hit that combine spicy, creamy, and savory in one bite.
Kitchen Questions
- → How do I remove jalapeño seeds safely?
Wear gloves and use a small spoon or knife to scrape out seeds and membranes carefully to reduce heat and prevent skin irritation.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and wrap jalapeños in advance, then refrigerate until ready to bake for fresher results.
- → What cheese mixtures work best?
A blend of softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar provides a creamy, sharp flavor that balances the heat nicely.
- → Is there a way to make these less spicy?
Removing seeds and membranes significantly reduces heat, and substituting with milder peppers is an option.
- → What sides pair well with these starters?
Creamy dips like ranch or sour cream complement the smoky, spicy flavors perfectly.
- → Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Certainly, turkey bacon offers a lighter alternative while maintaining a smoky taste.