Print

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image
Print Recipe

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are grilled to perfection, combining spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese filling, and smoky bacon for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 fresh medium-sized jalapeño peppers
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (about 1/4 teaspoon salt)
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry 12 jalapeño peppers. Slice each in half lengthwise, then carefully remove seeds and membranes if you want less heat. Set aside on a tray.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and well combined.
  3. Spoon the cheese mixture evenly into each jalapeño half. Don’t overfill to avoid spillage during grilling.
  4. Take one slice of thin-cut bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño half, starting at the bottom and spiraling up. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
  5. Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F / 175°C). Arrange coals for indirect heat if using charcoal.
  6. Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños on the grill over indirect heat. Close the lid and cook for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs until bacon is crispy and cheese bubbles slightly.
  7. Remove from the grill and let the poppers rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use thin-cut bacon for best crispiness. Turn poppers every 5-7 minutes to avoid burning. Soak wooden toothpicks in water before use to prevent burning. If bacon isn’t crisping fast enough, move poppers closer to direct heat for a few minutes but watch carefully. Let poppers rest 5 minutes before eating to avoid molten cheese burns. Can be baked at 400°F for 20-25 minutes if no grill is available, but grilling adds smoky flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon wrapped, grilled appetizers, spicy snacks, party food, easy appetizers

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/crispy-bacon-wrapped-jalape-n-o-poppers-recipe-easy-grilled-appetizers/