How do I safely prepare jalapeños for stuffing?

Wear gloves to avoid irritation, slice jalapeños lengthwise, and remove seeds and membranes for a milder flavor and easier filling.

Can I substitute turkey bacon in this dish?

Yes, turkey bacon provides a lighter option while still delivering savory crispiness when baked.

A creamy blend of softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar offers rich flavor and smooth texture for stuffing.

Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 18–20 minutes until bacon is crispy and the cheese filling bubbles.

Adding chopped chives or green onions to the cheese mixture adds fresh, savory notes complementing the spicy peppers.

A festive, spicy appetizer featuring jalapeños stuffed with creamy cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon& perfect for holiday gatherings.

My family always looks forward to these poppers during our holiday celebrations& they never last long!

Vegetables: 6 large fresh jalapeño peppers
Dairy: 120 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened, 60 g (2 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
Meats: 6 slices thin-cut bacon, halved
Spices & Pantry: 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, Pinch of salt, Pinch of black pepper

Preheat Oven:: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare Jalapeños:: Slice jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes (wear gloves for safety).
Mix Cheese:: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Fill Jalapeños:: Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
Wrap Bacon:: Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a half slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
Arrange Poppers:: Arrange poppers on the prepared baking sheet, cheese side up.
Bake:: Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbling.
Cool:: Let cool 5 minutes before serving.

Making these poppers always brings back memories of our family holiday parties& the joy they bring is unmatched.

Serve with ranch or sour cream dip for added creaminess and a cooling contrast to the spicy jalapeños.

These poppers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.

Try adding finely chopped chives or green onions to the cheese mixture to enhance the flavor.

These jalapeño poppers are a perfect blend of smoky, creamy, and spicy flavors that will impress any crowd.

→ How do I safely prepare jalapeños for stuffing?: Wear gloves to avoid irritation, slice jalapeños lengthwise, and remove seeds and membranes for a milder flavor and easier filling.
→ Can I substitute turkey bacon in this dish?: Yes, turkey bacon provides a lighter option while still delivering savory crispiness when baked.
→ What cheeses work best for the filling?: A creamy blend of softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar offers rich flavor and smooth texture for stuffing.
→ How long should I bake the jalapeño poppers?: Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 18–20 minutes until bacon is crispy and the cheese filling bubbles.
→ Are there flavor variations to enhance the filling?: Adding chopped chives or green onions to the cheese mixture adds fresh, savory notes complementing the spicy peppers.