Classic Jalapeño Poppers are the ultimate party snack, combining the perfect balance of spicy and creamy goodness. Whether you're hosting a game day gathering or simply craving a savory treat, these poppers are guaranteed crowd-pleasers and surprisingly easy to make!
Jalapeño peppers bring the heat and a crunchy texture to the dish. They are the perfect vessel for the creamy filling. Cream cheese, softened to make mixing easy, provides a rich and smooth base for the filling. Cheddar cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the cream cheese. Bacon wraps everything up with its smoky, savory taste and crispy texture. A sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the core ingredients.
Pair these jalapeño poppers with a refreshing drink like a cold beer or a tangy margarita. They also complement other finger foods like chicken wings or cheese platters, making them a versatile addition to any appetizer spread.
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures it’s nice and hot for baking the poppers to crispy perfection. While the oven warms up, let's prepare the jalapeños. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membranes with a spoon. This not only makes space for the filling but also tames the heat a bit.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything until it’s well combined. This will be the creamy, cheesy filling that will melt nicely inside the peppers.
Now, it’s time to fill those jalapeño halves. Use a spoon to generously fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, ensuring the filling is level with the edges so it doesn’t overflow during baking.
Take each stuffed jalapeño half and wrap it with a slice of bacon. If the bacon slice is too long, you can trim it to fit snugly around the pepper. Secure the bacon in place with a toothpick so it stays wrapped during baking.
Arrange the bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers on a baking sheet, spacing them apart so they cook evenly. Slide the tray into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.
Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these poppers warm for the best flavor and texture.
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