Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

If you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers are it. Smoky, cheesy, and just the right amount of heat, these little bites bring the perfect balance of flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re hosting game day, a backyard cookout, or just craving something bold and satisfying, these poppers are guaranteed to disappear fast.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

In Florida, fresh and vibrant flavors are always on the menu, and jalapeno poppers are no exception. The smoky bacon and creamy cheese filling are pure comfort, while the jalapeño’s kick adds just the right amount of heat. It’s the kind of recipe that invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and share a plateful with good company; true to the charm and ease of Florida living. Here are some reasons why you'll love this recipe:

• Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: These are always the first to disappear at parties, tailgates, or backyard cookouts.
• Versatile Cooking Options: Bake them in the oven or throw them on the grill for that extra charred flavor.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep them in advance and pop them in the oven when guests arrive.

Equipment

• Cutting board & sharp knife: For slicing and seeding the jalapeños.
• Spoon or small paring knife: To scoop out the seeds and membranes.
• Mixing bowl & spoon: For stirring together the creamy cheese filling.
• Measuring cups & spoons: To measure out cheese and seasonings.
• Baking sheet: Lined with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Wire rack (optional): Placed on top of the baking sheet for crispier bacon all around.
• Toothpicks (optional): To secure the bacon if it slips while baking.
• Gloves (optional but recommended): For handling jalapeños, since the oils can irritate your skin.

Ingredients

• Jalapeños: Jalapeños bring that signature spicy kick, but the heat level can vary. Removing the seeds and membranes tones them down, making them milder while still keeping that fresh, zesty flavor.
• Cream Cheese: This is the creamy base that cools down the heat of the peppers. It balances the spice while adding richness and helps the filling hold its shape when baked.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds sharp, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with bacon. Pepper Jack is a fun swap if you want extra spice and a touch of creaminess.
• Onion Powder: A simple seasoning that adds subtle savory notes without overpowering the cheese filling.
• Bacon: The crispy, salty wrap that makes these irresistible. Thin-cut bacon works best because it crisps up nicely without overwhelming the jalapeños.
• Salt and Pepper

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

• Step 1: Prep the Jalapeños: Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and membranes (leave a few for extra heat if you like it spicy).

• Step 2: Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar onion powder, and salt and pepper until smooth.

• Step 3: Fill the Jalapeños: Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, spreading evenly but not overfilling.

• Step 4: Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each filled jalapeño with a half slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if needed.

• Step 5: Cook:
• Oven method: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place poppers on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake 20–25 minutes until bacon is crisp and cheese is bubbly.
• Grill method: Grill over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, about 15 minutes until bacon is crispy and jalapeños are tender.

• Step 6: Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

How To Serve

• Fresh from the Oven or Grill: These taste best hot, when the bacon is crispy and the cheese filling is gooey. Serve them right away for maximum deliciousness.
• On a Platter: Arrange them on a rustic wooden board or platter lined with parchment for a casual, inviting look. Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onion on top for a pop of color.
• With Dipping Sauces: Offer ranch, blue cheese dressing, or even a cool cilantro-lime sauce to balance the heat. A little honey or sweet chili sauce is also fantastic for a sweet-and-spicy combo.
• As a Starter or Party Appetizer: Perfect for game days, BBQs, tailgates, or porch-side happy hours.

What to Pair With

DRINKS:

• A crisp beer (lager, IPA, or Mexican beer with lime) balances the richness.
• Margaritas or palomas bring a refreshing citrusy contrast.
• For a Florida twist, try pairing with a citrus spritzer or rum punch.

OTHER DISHES:

• Serve alongside grilled meats like burgers, ribs, or chicken wings.
• Pair with fresh sides like coleslaw, guacamole, summer corn salad, watermelon feta salad for balance.
• Add them to a game-day spread with nachos, sliders, or chips and dip.

Variations

Here are some fun and flavorful variations on bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers you can try next:

• Cheese Lovers’ Poppers: Mix in mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack along with the cream cheese for extra melty goodness.
• Brown Sugar Glaze: Roll the bacon-wrapped poppers in brown sugar before baking for a caramelized, sweet-and-spicy finish.
• Veggie-Friendly: Swap jalapeños for mini sweet peppers for a milder, colorful option.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Place cooled poppers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm them in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes until heated through and the bacon crisps back up. (The oven works much better than the microwave, which can make the bacon soggy.)
• Freezer (optional): You can freeze baked or unbaked poppers. Arrange them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Store for up to 1 month. When ready, bake straight from frozen at 375°F, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Related

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Print Recipe

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers are it. Smoky, cheesy, and just the right amount of heat, these little bites bring the perfect balance of flavor and texture in every bite. 

Prep Time20 minutes mins

Cook Time25 minutes mins

Total Time45 minutes mins

Course: Appetizer

Servings: 10 servings

Author: Tiffany

Equipment

• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Spoon and small pairing knife
• Mixing bowl and spoon
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Baking Sheet
• Toothpicks
• Gloves

Ingredients

• 12 fresh jalapeños
• 8 oz cream cheese softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 12 slices bacon cut in half (for 24 pieces)
• Pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions

• Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise.
• Scoop out the seeds and membranes (leave a few for extra heat if you like it spicy).
• In a bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, onion powder, salt and pepper until smooth.
• Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, spreading evenly but not overfilling.
• Wrap each filled jalapeño with a half slice of bacon.
• Secure with a toothpick if needed.
• Oven method: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place poppers on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake 20–25 minutes until bacon is crisp and cheese is bubbly.
• Grill method: Grill over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, about 15 minutes until bacon is crispy and jalapeños are tender.
• Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

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