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Crispy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Popper Bites: Best Game Day Appetizer

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These crispy bacon wrapped jalapeño popper bites are the ultimate game day appetizer. Creamy, spicy, salty, and crunchy, they disappear faster than you can make them.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium fresh jalapeños
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 12 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet.
  2. Halve the jalapeños lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and white membrane with a small spoon.
  3. Par-cook the bacon: Lay bacon slices on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels. Cook on high for 2-3 minutes until the fat starts rendering but the bacon is still pliable.
  4. Make the filling: In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix until smooth.
  5. Fill the jalapeño halves: Spoon or pipe the filling into each pepper half, mounding slightly (about 1-2 teaspoons per half).
  6. Wrap with bacon: Cut each par-cooked bacon slice in half crosswise. Wrap one half around each filled jalapeño, overlapping the ends slightly. Place seam-side down on the wire rack.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the bacon is golden brown and crispy and the filling is bubbly. Rotate the pan halfway through.
  8. Rest for 5 minutes on the rack before serving.
  9. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions. Serve warm.

Notes

Par-cook the bacon first to ensure it gets crispy without overcooking the pepper. Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling. Don’t overfill the peppers. For make-ahead, assemble up to 24 hours in advance and add 5 minutes to baking time. For air fryer, cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño popper, bacon wrapped, game day appetizer, crispy, cream cheese, cheddar, party food

Find it online: https://yumbelle.com/crispy-bacon-wrapped-jalape-n-o-popper-bites-best-game-day-appetizer/