Jalapeño poppers are the ultimate appetizer, bursting with flavor and an undeniable crowd-pleaser. With so many variations out there, it’s easy to see why they’re a go-to dish for parties, gatherings, or just a tasty snack. This version takes it up a notch by stuffing the jalapeños with a rich, cheesy filling and wrapping them in bacon for that perfect crispy finish. With every bite, you’ll experience a blend of creamy cheese, fresh veggies, and a hint of heat—all complemented by the irresistible crunch of bacon.
These baked jalapeño poppers are surprisingly easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party, bringing them to a potluck, or just enjoying them as a treat, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Make them once, and you’ll fall in love with how simple, flavorful, and impressive they are. Trust me, these will become your go-to snack!
Ingredients
- 12-14 large jalapeños
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, minced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, minced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Cotija cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Kosher salt, to taste (about 1/4 tsp)
- Black pepper, to taste, ground
- 18-21 slices of bacon
- 28 toothpicks
Directions
1. Prep the Jalapeños:
Start by prepping your jalapeños. Use a sharp knife to make a small cut under the stem and one above the tip of each pepper. Then, slice them lengthwise down the middle to create a “window” in each pepper. Carefully remove the seeds, veins, and membranes from inside. Be sure to wear gloves or wash your hands thoroughly after handling the peppers. Once cleaned, gently press the jalapeños back together and set them aside. Repeat with the remaining peppers.
2. Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced yellow onion, red bell pepper, garlic, softened cream cheese, Cotija cheese, shredded mozzarella, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth. The mixture should be thick but easy to stuff into the peppers.
3. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a sheet pan with aluminum foil. Place a rack on top of the sheet pan to help the bacon crisp up during baking.
4. Assemble the Poppers:
Stuff each jalapeño with the cheese and veggie filling. Don’t overstuff; be sure to close the pepper around the filling and scrape off any excess that might ooze out. Next, take 1 1/2 slices of bacon and wrap them around the jalapeño from top to bottom. Secure both ends of the bacon with toothpicks. Continue this process for the rest of the peppers.
5. Bake the Poppers:
Arrange the wrapped jalapeños on the rack, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden, the cheese is lightly browned, and everything is bubbling with deliciousness.
6. Let Them Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the poppers from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving. These are best enjoyed warm, but they’re also delicious at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Poppers
- Choose the Right Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best as it crisps up nicely and holds its shape around the jalapeños.
- Adjust the Heat: If you want to dial back the heat, make sure to remove all of the seeds and membranes inside the jalapeños. The more you remove, the milder the peppers will be.
- Get Creative with Cheese: While Cotija and mozzarella are fantastic in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or even cream cheese with herbs for added flavor.
Why You’ll Love These Baked Jalapeño Poppers
There’s something magical about the combination of creamy, cheesy filling with the kick of jalapeño, all wrapped in crispy bacon. Each bite is a burst of bright, zesty flavors that perfectly balance the richness of the cheese and the smokiness of the bacon. They’re easy to make, but they look like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, making them perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself to something special.
Whether you’re making them for a game day snack, a party, or simply to enjoy on a lazy afternoon, these baked jalapeño poppers are sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy!
