These bacon-wrapped jalapeño popper bites are the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Stuffed with a rich blend of cream cheese and sharp cheddar, they offer a deliciously creamy contrast to the crispy, salty bacon. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of heat from the jalapeños and savory goodness that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ideal for parties or as a unique appetizer, these bites are easy to make and sure to impress. You can prepare them in advance and then bake them just before serving for a warm, cheesy treat.
Ingredients
INGREDIENTS
- 12 large jalapeños
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes carefully.
- In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until well combined.
- Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling generously.
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a half slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
- Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Storage: Leftover jalapeño popper bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
To adjust the heat level, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños, which hold most of the spice. If you prefer a milder flavor, select larger jalapeños, which tend to be less spicy.
For a twist, try adding cooked and crumbled sausage to the cheese mixture or substituting the cheddar with pepper jack for an extra kick. These poppers can be made ahead of time; just store them in the fridge before baking. They also freeze well, making them great for meal prep!
