Jalapeño Poppers with Cheese and Bacon

Jalapeño Poppers with Cheese and Bacon are a delicious and spicy appetizer perfect for parties, gatherings, or game day snacks. These bite-sized treats are made by stuffing fresh jalapeño halves with a creamy mixture of cheeses and crumbled bacon, then baking them until golden and bubbly. Their irresistible combination of heat, creaminess, and crunch makes them a crowd favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the ultimate party appetizer—spicy, cheesy, and satisfyingly crispy. The jalapeños provide a mild to moderate heat, balanced perfectly by a rich, creamy cheese blend and the smoky crunch of bacon. They are easy to prepare ahead of time and bake just before serving, making them convenient for entertaining.

Even better, you can customize them based on your spice preference or dietary needs. Whether you’re serving a casual group of friends or preparing a game day platter, these poppers deliver bold flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh jalapeño peppers

• Cream cheese (softened)

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Shredded mozzarella cheese

• Cooked bacon (crumbled)

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Jalapeños: Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. If you prefer less heat, make sure to remove all seeds.

3. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

4. Stuff the Peppers: Use a spoon to fill each jalapeño half with the cheese and bacon mixture. If desired, sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs for added crunch.

5. Bake: Arrange the filled jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the jalapeños are tender.

6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 poppers (6 jalapeños halved)

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon or use vegetarian bacon bits.

• Extra Spicy: Leave some seeds in the jalapeños or add chopped hot peppers to the filling.

• Mild Version: Use mini sweet peppers instead of jalapeños for a no-heat version.

• Wrapped in Bacon: Instead of mixing bacon into the filling, wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon before baking.

• Air Fryer: Cook in an air fryer at 375°F for 10–12 minutes for quicker prep and extra crispness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5–6 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it may make the peppers soggy.

FAQs

Can I make these jalapeño poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can stuff them and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Bake them just before serving for best results.

How spicy are these poppers?

They have a mild to moderate heat. Removing the seeds and membranes reduces the spiciness significantly.

Can I freeze jalapeño poppers?

Yes. Assemble them, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 25 minutes.

What cheese works best in the filling?

A combination of cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella gives the best flavor and texture, but you can use your favorites.

Can I grill these instead of baking?

Yes, place them on a grill-safe tray and cook over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the jalapeños are tender.

Do I need to wear gloves when handling jalapeños?

It’s recommended, especially if you have sensitive skin. Avoid touching your face or eyes after handling peppers.

How do I make them keto-friendly?

Skip the breadcrumbs and ensure your bacon and cheese are keto-compliant. The rest of the recipe is naturally low-carb.

Are these good for kids?

If your children tolerate a bit of spice, they might enjoy them. You can also substitute sweet peppers for a milder version.

What dipping sauce goes well with these?

Ranch dressing, sour cream, or a garlic aioli pairs well. They’re flavorful enough to serve on their own too.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives. The texture will differ slightly, but they will still be delicious.

Conclusion

Jalapeño Poppers with Cheese and Bacon are a delicious and crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the bold heat of jalapeños with creamy cheese and crispy bacon. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a spicy snack, this easy-to-make recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and satisfaction. Customize them to your taste and enjoy the perfect blend of spice and indulgence in every bite.

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