There is nothing quite like the combination of a smoky, crispy exterior and a rich, velvety center to kick off a weekend gathering. These bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers strike the perfect balance between spicy heat and savory comfort, making them an essential addition to any appetizer spread. Whether you are hosting a lively game day party or a casual family dinner, these bite-sized treats are guaranteed to be the first thing to vanish from the table.

Recipe Details

Yields: 24 jalapeño poppers
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapeños
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
12 slices bacon, cut in half

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (205°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with either aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Carefully slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scrape out the seeds and the inner membranes to prepare them for the filling.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Add salt and pepper to your preference and mix until the filling is completely smooth and well-incorporated.
Using a spoon or spatula, fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, leaving a slight mound of filling in the center.
Take a half-slice of bacon and wrap it snugly around the middle of each stuffed pepper. If the bacon feels like it might unravel, you can use a toothpick to pin it securely in place.
Arrange the prepared poppers across the baking sheet, ensuring they have a bit of space between them.
Bake the poppers for 20–25 minutes. The goal is for the bacon to become beautifully crisp and the peppers to turn tender and fragrant.
If you prefer your bacon extra-crunchy, you can turn the oven to the broil setting for a final 1–2 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Remove the tray from the oven and let the poppers cool for several minutes before serving, as the cheese filling will be very hot.

Tips for Success

If you want to enjoy the flavor of the jalapeño without too much spice, try soaking the halved and seeded peppers in a bowl of ice-cold water for about 30 minutes before you fill them. This helps neutralize some of the heat. For those who love a bit of texture, consider sprinkling the tops with a handful of panko breadcrumbs just before they go into the oven for an added layer of crunch.