Game Day Jalapeno Poppers Bacon (Printable)
Cheesy jalapeno halves filled with a creamy mix, wrapped in crispy turkey bacon. A perfect snack for any gathering!
# What You Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 8 large fresh jalapeño peppers
→ Cheeses & Dairy
02 - 4 ounces (oz) cream cheese, softened
03 - ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
→ Meats
04 - 8 slices turkey bacon, halved crosswise
→ Seasonings
05 - ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
06 - ¼ teaspoon onion powder
07 - ⅛ teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - Salt, to taste
09 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Optional Garnishes
10 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
# Steps:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a standard baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for effortless cleanup.
02 - Donning kitchen gloves for safety, carefully halve each jalapeño pepper lengthwise. Using a small spoon, diligently scoop out the seeds and membranes. For a milder result, remove all internal components; for enhanced heat, leave some seeds intact.
03 - In a medium-sized mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until the ingredients are completely integrated and the filling is uniform.
04 - Generously fill each prepared jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, ensuring an even and ample distribution.
05 - Take one halved slice of turkey bacon and meticulously wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño half. Secure the bacon with a toothpick, if necessary, to maintain its position during the baking process.
06 - Arrange the wrapped jalapeño poppers on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring adequate space between each to promote even cooking. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the turkey bacon achieves a crispy texture and the cheese filling is visibly bubbly.
07 - Allow the poppers to cool for 5 minutes post-baking before serving. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped chives or green onions to enhance presentation and flavor.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It's incredibly simple to throw together, yet tastes like you spent hours laboring in the kitchen.
- You get that perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and smoky in every single bite — truly irresistible!
02 -
- Seriously, wear gloves when handling jalapeños; I once forgot, and my eyes paid the price for hours — a burning reminder!
- Make sure your cream cheese is truly softened, otherwise, you'll end up with lumps, and nobody wants chunky filling.
03 -
- Don't overcrowd your baking sheet; giving each popper space ensures the bacon gets beautifully crispy instead of steaming.
- For an extra layer of flavor and crunch, try adding a tiny pinch of crispy fried onions or finely crushed gluten-free crackers to the top of the cheese mixture before wrapping.