Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

5 from 3 votes

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

Crispy bacon wrapped jalapeno poppers stuffed with creamy cheese—easy 25-minute baked appetizer perfect for game day, parties & holidays. Make-ahead & freezer-friendly!

Prep Time10

Cook Time15

Total Time25

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Servings: poppers

Author: Robyn Stone

Ingredients

12 medium jalapeno peppers cut in half lengthwise with seeds removed
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese optional
12 slices bacon cut in half

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup and to catch any drips (optional).
Prepare the jalapeños (wear disposable gloves!): Slice each pepper in half lengthwise. Leave a small portion of the stem attached as a “handle” for easy serving and visual appeal. Use a spoon to scrape out all seeds and white membranes (this controls the heat—remove everything for milder poppers).
Make the creamy filling: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the shredded cheddar (if using) until smooth and well combined.
Stuff the peppers: Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling just to the top without overfilling (excess will melt out during baking).
Wrap with bacon: Wrap each stuffed half tightly with one half-slice of bacon. The bacon should overlap slightly and cover most of the filling. Secure with a toothpick if needed (especially with thicker bacon), though many find it stays in place without one.
Bake: Arrange the poppers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden. For extra crispiness, broil on high for the last 1–2 minutes (watch closely!).
Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Serve warm—plain or with ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or hot honey for a sweet-spicy kick.

Video

Notes

Air Fryer Instructions:

Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Place poppers in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Air fry 12–15 minutes (thin bacon ≈10–12 min; thick-cut ≈14–16 min), flipping halfway if desired, until bacon is crispy.

Make-Ahead & Freezer Instructions:

Refrigerator (up to 2 days): Assemble through wrapping, place on the baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 2–3 extra minutes if cold.
Freezer (up to 3 months): Assemble and flash-freeze on the baking sheet for 15–30 minutes until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. Bake straight from frozen at 400°F for 20–25 minutes (or air fry 15–18 minutes).

Storage & Reheating:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days.
Reheat: Oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–8 minutes until warmed and bacon re-crisps. Avoid microwave (makes bacon soggy).

Nutrition