Hands Down, One of the Best Party Appetizers Ever: Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
If you’re looking for an appetizer that disappears faster than anything else on the table, bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are it. They’re the perfect balance of creamy, smoky, spicy, and savory, and they work for everything from game days to birthday parties and holiday gatherings. Simple to make, endlessly craveable, and always a hit.
Why Everyone Loves Them
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Big flavor in one bite
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Creamy filling + crispy bacon
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Easy to prep ahead
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Perfect finger food
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Customizable heat level
These poppers are one of those recipes people ask for every single time.
Ingredients (Makes 20–24 Poppers)
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10–12 fresh jalapeño peppers
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8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
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1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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10–12 slices bacon, cut in half
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Optional: chopped green onions or chives
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top (for extra crispiness).
Slice jalapeños in half lengthwise. Scoop out seeds and membranes (remove more for less heat).
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Stir in green onions if using.
Step 3: Stuff and Wrap
Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half.
Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with half a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
Step 4: Bake
Place poppers on the rack and bake for 25–30 minutes, until bacon is crispy and the filling is bubbly.
For extra crisp bacon, broil for the last 2–3 minutes (watch closely).
Step 5: Serve
Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm.
Pro Tips for Perfect Poppers
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Use thick-cut bacon for best texture
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Don’t overfill or cheese may spill out
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Gloves help when handling jalapeños
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Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking
Delicious Variations
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Sweet Heat: Add a drizzle of honey after baking
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BBQ Style: Mix BBQ seasoning into the cheese
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Extra Meaty: Add cooked, crumbled sausage to the filling
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Milder Version: Substitute mini sweet peppers for jalapeños
Perfect for Any Party
These bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers check every box: easy, bold, comforting, and unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or bringing a dish to share, this is the appetizer that earns compliments—and empty trays—every single time.
Hands down, one of the best party appetizers ever. 🌶️