Get ready to set your taste buds on fire with the ultimate party appetizer that will have everyone begging for more! These Pioneer Woman's Jalapeño Bacon Poppers are not just another snack - they're a flavor explosion that combines the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and crispy in every single bite. Whether you're hosting a game day gathering, a summer barbecue, or just craving an irresistible appetizer, these poppers will transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience that'll make you the ultimate kitchen hero!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 12 jalapeno peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to catch bacon grease.
- Carefully slice each jalapeño pepper in half lengthwise, using gloves to protect your hands from the pepper's oils. Remove the seeds and membranes using a small spoon to create a clean pepper boat.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture, ensuring the filling is slightly mounded above the pepper's surface.
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a half slice of bacon, ensuring the bacon covers most of the cheese filling. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if needed.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped poppers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each popper to allow even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. The filling will be extremely hot, so allow them to rest briefly.
- Transfer to a serving platter and serve warm as an appetizer or game day snack.
Tips
- Always wear disposable gloves when handling jalapeños to prevent skin irritation from pepper oils.
- For less heat, remove all seeds and membranes carefully from the peppers.
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for easier mixing and smoother filling.
- Use thick-cut bacon for better coverage and crispiness.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give poppers space to cook evenly.
- Let poppers cool for 5 minutes before serving to prevent burning your mouth.
- For extra flavor, try adding crisp crumbled bacon or chopped chives to the cheese mixture.
- Use toothpicks to secure bacon if it doesn't stay in place during baking.
- For a lighter version, you can use turkey bacon or reduce cheese quantity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 130kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
