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Crispy Smoked Cream Cheese Stuffed Jalapeños Wrapped in Bacon

smoked cream cheese stuffed jalapeños wrapped in bacon - featured image

These crispy smoked cream cheese stuffed jalapeños wrapped in bacon are a bold, addictive appetizer perfect for game day or casual get-togethers. The smoky bacon, gentle heat from jalapeños, and creamy cheese filling create an irresistible flavor combination.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium-sized fresh jalapeños
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (100 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the jalapeños. Slice them in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes using a small spoon or knife.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
  3. Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture using a spoon or small scoop.
  4. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with one slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
  5. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F (107°C) for smoking with indirect heat and wood chips. If baking, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  6. Place wrapped jalapeños on grill or smoker rack and smoke for 1 to 1.5 hours until bacon is crispy and jalapeños are tender. If baking, place on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes to crisp bacon.
  7. Let jalapeños cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.

Notes

Watch the bacon closely near the end to avoid burning. Remove seeds and membranes from jalapeños to reduce heat. Thin-cut bacon crisps faster and cooks more evenly. Oven method works if no smoker is available but lacks authentic smoky flavor. Let cream cheese soften before mixing for smooth filling. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, smoked jalapeños, bacon wrapped appetizers, cream cheese stuffed jalapeños, game day snacks, smoky appetizers