Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers combine creamy cheese, spicy jalapeños, and crispy bacon for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. These poppers are baked, not fried, making them a simple, flavorful option for game day or any gathering.
Bacon elevates nearly any appetizer, and wrapping jalapeño poppers in bacon adds a smoky, crunchy layer to the creamy, spicy filling. If you want a dependable, bite-sized snack that’s cheesy, spicy, and easy to make ahead, these poppers fit the bill and tend to disappear fast at parties.
What Are Jalapeño Poppers?
Jalapeño poppers are fresh jalapeño peppers halved and filled with a cheese-based mixture and seasonings. They can be fried, grilled, or baked. Fried poppers are often breaded, while baked or grilled versions are lighter and typically lower in carbs.
How to Make Baked Jalapeño Poppers
These bacon-wrapped poppers are baked for convenience and flavor. Follow these straightforward steps for consistent results:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a sheet pan with foil and coat it with cooking spray.
- Slice jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and ribs. In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
- Cut bacon slices in half crosswise, wrap each stuffed pepper with a half slice of bacon, and secure with a toothpick.
- Arrange poppers on the prepared baking sheet and bake 20–25 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and browned.
To Make Ahead
You can assemble these poppers the night before and refrigerate them, then bake just before serving. For longer storage, freeze assembled poppers on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Bake from frozen when needed for a quick snack.
How to Store Leftovers
After baking and cooling, store poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To freeze, cool completely, then place in a freezer bag; they keep up to three months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through and the bacon is crisp.
More Game Day Food Ideas
- Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp – Shrimp De Jonghe
- Homemade Pigs in a Blanket
- Bang Bang Chicken
- Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients
- 12 jalapeño peppers
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 12 slices bacon, avoid thick-cut
- cooking spray
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a sheet pan with foil and coat it with cooking spray.
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Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and ribs. Use gloves if possible to avoid contact with spicy oils.
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In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half.
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Cut bacon slices in half crosswise and wrap each stuffed pepper with a half slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick.
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Place poppers on the prepared baking sheet and bake 20–25 minutes, until the bacon is crisp and browned.
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Remove from the oven and serve immediately.
Equipment
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Baking sheet
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Chef knife
Notes
- Removing ribs and seeds: Scrape out the ribs and seeds to reduce heat and create room for the filling.
- Wear gloves: Use gloves when handling jalapeños to protect your skin and avoid transferring capsaicin to sensitive areas.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to two days. Freeze cooled poppers in a freezer bag up to three months.
Nutrition
Nutritional info is an estimate and provided as a courtesy. Values may vary based on ingredients and preparation. Use a nutrition calculator if you need precise numbers.
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