Spice up your appetizer game with these irresistible Spicy Jalapeño Poppers! Perfect for a backyard barbecue or cozy night in, these poppers bring a kick of heat wrapped in crispy bacon goodness. They're a crowd-pleaser you'll want to make again and again.
Jalapeños are the star of the show, bringing that characteristic heat and crunch. Removing the seeds and membranes helps control the spice level, so you can adjust according to your taste.
Cream cheese serves as the creamy base for the filling, balancing the heat with its smooth texture. Make sure it's softened for easy mixing.
Cheddar cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the mild cream cheese. It melts beautifully, creating a gooey center.
Bacon wraps everything up in a savory, smoky layer, becoming crispy as it grills. It's the perfect contrast to the creamy filling.
Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika infuse the filling with depth and a touch of smokiness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Finally, a sprinkle of salt and pepper rounds out the seasoning, ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced.
These poppers are fantastic served alongside a fresh, tangy coleslaw or a crisp garden salad to balance the richness. A cold beer or a zesty margarita pairs wonderfully with their smoky, spicy flavors. They're also great on a party platter with other grilled appetizers.
First, get your grill preheating to medium-high. While the grill is warming up, grab those jalapeños and slice each one in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and membranes. This step is key to controlling the heat, so feel free to leave some in if you're feeling adventurous.
Next, in a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be creamy and well-seasoned, ready to fill those jalapeño halves.
Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, packing it in just enough so it doesn’t overflow. Then, take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño, securing with a toothpick if needed. The bacon will crisp up and hold everything together as it cooks.
Place the wrapped jalapeños on the grill. Let them cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. You’re aiming for crispy bacon and melted cheese, so keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Once they’re done, carefully remove them from the grill and let them cool just slightly. They're best enjoyed warm when the cheese is gooey and the flavors are fresh.
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