Description
Spicy jalapeño poppers stuffed with cream cheese deliver a perfect appetizer for game day or parties. Crispy bacon and melted cheese create irresistible flavor combinations that keep guests coming back for more.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 jalapenos (fresh and firm)
- 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup (113 g) shredded mild cheddar cheese
- 6 oz (170 g) bacon (cooked and chopped)
- 3 tablespoons green onion (chopped)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 375°F (190°C) for optimal cooking temperature.
- Carefully halve jalapenos lengthwise, meticulously removing all internal seeds and membranes to reduce intense heat.
- Create a creamy filling by thoroughly blending cream cheese with minced garlic, finely chopped green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and a pinch of salt and black pepper until smooth and well-incorporated.
- Generously stuff each jalapeno half with the prepared cheese mixture, ensuring an even and full distribution.
- Sprinkle crispy, pre-cooked bacon pieces over the top of each stuffed pepper for added texture and flavor.
- Arrange the loaded jalapeno halves on a clean baking sheet, maintaining space between each piece to allow even heat circulation.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, watching for tender pepper texture and completely melted, bubbly cheese surface.
- Remove from oven and let cool briefly before serving to allow flavors to settle and prevent burning.
- Serve immediately while warm for the most enjoyable taste and optimal appetizer experience.
Notes
- For a milder heat, thoroughly remove all seeds and membranes from jalapenos using a small spoon or paring knife.
- Wear disposable gloves when handling spicy peppers to prevent skin irritation and accidental eye contact.
- Consider using low-fat cream cheese and turkey bacon for a lighter, healthier version of the appetizer.
- Allow cream cheese mixture to sit at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother consistency before filling peppers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 166
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg