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Easy Crispy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Popper Bites

crispy bacon wrapped jalapeño popper bites - featured image

These crispy bacon wrapped jalapeño popper bites are the perfect party appetizer. They combine smoky bacon, creamy cheese filling, and just enough heat from jalapeños for an irresistible snack that disappears fast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1215 fresh jalapeños, medium-sized
  • 1 pound thin-cut bacon
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chives or green onions, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet.
  2. Wash the jalapeños, then slice each one in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon or a paring knife to scrape out the white ribs and seeds. You should have 24 to 30 jalapeño halves total.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and a tiny pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined.
  4. Spoon or pipe the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeño half. Do not overfill—you want the filling to be level with the edges of the pepper so the bacon wraps snugly.
  5. Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise. Take one half-slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around the middle of a filled jalapeño half. The bacon should overlap just a little bit. Place the wrapped bite seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack. Repeat with the remaining jalapeños.
  6. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You are looking for the bacon to be crispy and deep golden brown, and the jalapeños should be tender but still holding their shape. If you are baking directly on the pan, flip the bites halfway through at the 12-minute mark for even crisping.
  7. Let the bites rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions if you are using them, and serve warm.

Notes

Par-cook the bacon slightly if using thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness. Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid burning your skin. For a milder version, use mini sweet bell peppers instead of jalapeños. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes to re-crisp the bacon.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño popper bites, bacon wrapped jalapeños, game day appetizer, crispy bacon appetizer, easy party snack