Easy Crispy Bacon Jalapeño Poppers Recipe
These easy jalapeño poppers are a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy filling and crispy bacon topping, making them an irresistible appetizer. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, this recipe ensures a delightful crunch in every bite, with a simple preparation process.
Equipment
- Rimmed baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Gloves (for handling jalapeños)
Ingredients
- 5 slices regular-cut bacon
- 8 ounces plain cream cheese softened
- ½ cup shredded medium cheddar cheese 2 ounces
- ¼ cup chopped fresh chives plus more for garnish
- 1 garlic clove minced
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 14–16 medium jalapeño peppers about 1 pound
- 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons unsalted butter melted
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook bacon for about 3 minutes per side until crisp and browned. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels, and reserve 2 teaspoons of the bacon fat if desired for the breadcrumb topping. Chop the bacon into small bits, setting aside ½ cup for the filling.
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F and place a rack in the center.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chives, garlic, salt, and pepper. Use a fork to mix everything until smooth and fully combined.
- Prepare the Jalapeños: Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon (consider wearing gloves for this step). Discard the seeds.
- Stuff the Jalapeños: Fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture, leveling it with the sides. Arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter (or reserved bacon fat). Stir until the crumbs are moistened. Mix in the chopped bacon and sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of the crumb mixture over each jalapeño.
- Bake: Bake the poppers for 17–20 minutes, or until the jalapeños are tender and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the poppers to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chives for a finishing touch.
Notes
- If cream cheese is cold, it will be more challenging to mix. Let it soften to room temperature for easier preparation.
- Adjust the spice level by removing more or fewer seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.
- These poppers are versatile and can be served warm or at room temperature.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!