How to Make Spicy and Savory Jalapeño Bacon Wrapped Poppers: A Culinary Delight!
Crispy bacon, spicy jalapeños, and creamy cheese come together in perfect harmony to create the ultimate party appetizer: jalapeño bacon wrapped poppers. While they may seem intimidating to make, this step-by-step guide will make you a pro in no time.
Ingredients:
- 12 large jalapeño peppers
- 12 slices thick-cut bacon
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Jalapeños:
- Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and ribs.
- Use a spoon to gently scrape out any remaining seeds or membranes.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, onion, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined and creamy.
3. Fill the Jalapeños:
- Spoon the cream cheese filling into the hollowed-out jalapeño halves.
- Fill them to the brim, but do not overfill.
4. Wrap with Bacon:
- Wrap each filled jalapeño half with a slice of bacon.
- Secure the bacon with a toothpick.
5. Bake:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the bacon-wrapped poppers on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
- Remove the poppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with additional cilantro or chopped green onions, if desired.
Tips:
- For spicier poppers, leave some of the jalapeño seeds in.
- For a creamier filling, add a splash of milk or cream.
- To prevent the bacon from sticking to the baking sheet, grease it lightly with cooking spray.
- Serve the poppers with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or sour cream.
Variations:
- Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to the cream cheese filling.
- Wrap the poppers with prosciutto instead of bacon.
- Stuff the jalapeños with a mixture of cream cheese, ground beef, and salsa.
- Bake the poppers in a muffin tin for a fun and easy presentation.
Conclusion:
Making jalapeño bacon wrapped poppers is a breeze with this foolproof guide. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a spicy and satisfying snack, these poppers are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the perfect appetizer experience!
FAQ:
Q: Can I make these poppers ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the poppers and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake them as directed.
Q: What if I don’t have thick-cut bacon?
A: You can use regular-cut bacon, but you may need to double it up to ensure that the poppers are wrapped securely.
Q: How can I make the poppers less spicy?
A: Remove all the seeds and ribs from the jalapeños before filling them. This will significantly reduce the heat level.