Jalapeno Poppers Recipe
Jalapeno poppers are a classic appetizer or snack that combines the heat of jalapeno peppers with creamy cheese and crispy bacon. These spicy and savory treats are perfect for parties, game days, or any time you're craving a flavorful snack. In this recipe, we'll show you how to make delicious jalapeno poppers stuffed with cream cheese, wrapped in bacon, and baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 6 large jalapeno peppers
- 6 slices bacon cut in half crosswise
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks for securing the bacon
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Jalapenos:
- Slice the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon. Wear gloves if desired, as jalapenos can be spicy and may irritate your skin.
Make the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Fill the Jalapeno Halves:
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling them evenly. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon.
Wrap with Bacon:
- Wrap each cream cheese-filled jalapeno half with a half-slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick to hold it in place. Repeat with the remaining jalapeno halves and bacon slices.
Bake the Poppers:
- Place the assembled jalapeno poppers on the prepared baking sheet, spaced apart to allow for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapenos are tender.
Serve Hot:
- Once cooked, remove the jalapeno poppers from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Allow them to cool slightly before serving, as the filling will be hot.
Optional Garnish:
- Garnish the jalapeno poppers with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for extra flavor and color, if desired.
Enjoy:
- Serve the jalapeno poppers hot as a delicious appetizer or snack. They pair well with ranch dressing, salsa, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Tips:
- For a milder version, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before filling them.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and filling.
- You can customize the filling by adding cooked and crumbled sausage, diced onions, or chopped herbs.
- If you prefer, you can also grill the jalapeno poppers instead of baking them. Simply place them on a preheated grill over medium heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the jalapenos are tender.