Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

Jalapenos: Fresh, spicy peppers that are halved and seeded to create a vessel for the filling.

Cream cheese: Softened to a spreadable consistency, providing a creamy and tangy filling for the jalapenos.

Bacon: Sliced in half and wrapped around the stuffed jalapenos, adding a savory and crispy element to the dish.

When preparing the jalapenos, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat level. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can leave a few seeds in. For an extra layer of flavor, consider mixing some shredded cheddar cheese or garlic powder into the cream cheese before stuffing the jalapenos. To ensure the bacon gets crispy, you can partially cook it in a skillet for a few minutes before wrapping it around the jalapenos. This will also help render some of the fat, preventing the poppers from becoming too greasy.

• jalapenos - Substitute with mini bell peppers: Mini bell peppers are milder in heat and provide a similar crunch, making them a great alternative for those who prefer less spice.

• jalapenos - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers have a mild heat and a slightly earthy flavor, offering a different but enjoyable taste profile.

• cream cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a tangy flavor and creamy texture, providing a unique twist to the filling.

• cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese is lighter and has a slightly sweet flavor, making it a good alternative for a different texture and taste.

• bacon - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto is thinner and less fatty than bacon, offering a delicate and savory flavor.

• bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option with less fat, providing a similar smoky flavor without the extra calories.

• Allow the bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Place the cooled poppers in an airtight container. If stacking them, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. These delightful appetizers will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

• For longer storage, consider freezing. Arrange the poppers in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once frozen, transfer the poppers to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• When ready to enjoy, reheat the frozen poppers in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapenos are heated through.

• Avoid microwaving, as this can make the bacon rubbery and the cream cheese filling unevenly heated.

• If you prefer, reheat in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes for a crispier texture.

• Always check the internal temperature to ensure they are heated thoroughly before serving.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cream cheese is heated through.
  4. Let cool slightly before serving.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Arrange the jalapeno poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  3. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Allow to cool slightly before enjoying.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
  4. Let sit for a minute before serving to avoid burning your mouth.

• Skillet Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Place the jalapeno poppers in the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
  3. Cover with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even heating.
  4. Remove from skillet and let cool slightly before serving.

• Oven: Used to bake the bacon-wrapped jalapenos at the specified temperature until the bacon is crispy.

• Baking sheet: A flat sheet used to place the jalapenos on for baking.

• Parchment paper: Lining for the baking sheet to prevent the jalapenos from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

• Knife: Used to halve and seed the jalapenos.

• Spoon: Helpful for filling the jalapeno halves with softened cream cheese.

• Toothpicks: Used to secure the bacon around the stuffed jalapenos if needed.

• Cutting board: A surface to safely cut and prepare the jalapenos.

• Mixing bowl: Optional, for softening and mixing the cream cheese if needed.

Prepare the filling ahead: Mix the cream cheese and jalapenos the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cooked bacon: Opt for pre-cooked bacon to reduce baking time and ensure crispy results.

Line up ingredients: Arrange all your ingredients on the counter before starting to streamline the process.

Batch work: Halve and seed all jalapenos at once, then fill them all with cream cheese before wrapping with bacon.

Use a piping bag: Fill a piping bag with cream cheese for quick and easy filling of the jalapenos.