Stuffed Jalapeños

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
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If you're looking for a snack that's got a kick, these Stuffed Jalapeños are your new best friend. Perfect for game days, BBQs, or any time you want something spicy and satisfying. Wrapped in bacon, these little bites are truly irresistible!

Ingredients for Stuffed Jalapeños

Jalapeños: These are the star of the show, providing that fiery kick. Adjust the heat by removing more or fewer seeds.

Cream cheese: Softened to blend easily, it creates a creamy base that mellows the pepper's heat.

Cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the creaminess of the filling.

Garlic powder and onion powder: These add depth and a subtle savory note that enhances the other flavors.

Smoked paprika: A hint of smokiness that pairs perfectly with bacon and adds a bit of color.

Bacon: Everything tastes better with bacon, right? It crisps up beautifully, wrapping the jalapeños in a savory hug.

Green onions: Optional garnish that adds a fresh, zesty finish.

Salt and pepper: Season to taste, bringing out all the flavors in the mix.

Tips & Tricks

  • For easier cheese filling, let your cream cheese sit out for about 30 minutes to soften.
  • Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid transferring heat to your skin or eyes.
  • If you want to make these ahead, prep them up to the baking step and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
  • Try using different types of cheese for a unique flavor twist — pepper jack works great!

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed jalapeños make an excellent appetizer or party snack. Pair them with a refreshing citrusy beer or a margarita to balance the heat. They also complement a grilled steak or chicken meal, adding a spicy kick to your main course.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of pepper?
Yes! Sweet mini bell peppers are a great option for a milder version.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Absolutely, skip the bacon or use a vegetarian bacon alternative.

Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Next, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scoop out the seeds and ribs. If you prefer a milder heat, remove all the seeds; leave some in for more spice.

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.

Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. You can use a spoon for this, or even a piping bag if you want to get fancy.

Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño. If needed, secure the bacon with a toothpick to keep it from unraveling during baking.

Place the wrapped jalapeños on your prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapeños are tender.

Once out of the oven, sprinkle with chopped green onions for that fresh burst of flavor before serving.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare and bake — ready in under 45 minutes!
  • Bacon-wrapped goodness adds a savory touch that complements the heat of the jalapeños.
  • Customizable heat levels, depending on how many seeds you leave in.
  • A perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and smoky flavors.
  • Great for entertaining and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapeños
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
12 slices bacon
1/4 cup chopped green onions
Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and ribs.
3. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Fill each jalapeño half with cheese mixture.
5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick if necessary.
6. Place jalapeños on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until bacon is crispy and jalapeños are tender.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

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