Ingredients
For the jalapeño poppers
- 12 pieces medium-sized fresh jalapeños, washed and halved lengthwise, seeds removed Use gloves while handling.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 12 slices bacon, thin to medium cut
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional) For extra flavor.
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
Method
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and set aside.
- Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to carefully remove the seeds and membranes if you want less heat. Place the halves on the baking sheet, cut side up.
Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy.
- Fold in chopped green onions and cilantro if using.
Assembly
- Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cream cheese mixture using a small spoon or piping bag.
- Wrap one slice of bacon around each filled jalapeño half, securing with a toothpick if needed. The bacon should overlap slightly to hold the filling snugly.
Baking
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Halfway through (around 12 minutes), flip each popper carefully using tongs to allow even crisping on all sides.
- Check for doneness: bacon should be crispy and browned, jalapeño tender but not mushy. If bacon isn’t crispy enough, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Let the poppers cool for a couple of minutes before serving warm.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g
Notes
These poppers are best enjoyed warm, served with dips like ranch or blue cheese dressing. Garnish with additional chopped green onions or cilantro for added color.
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