Spicy Jalapeno Poppers are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the heat of jalapeno peppers with the creaminess of cheese stuffing. These delicious treats are perfect for parties, game nights, or any time you crave something spicy and cheesy. The jalapeno peppers are stuffed with a mixture of cream cheese and shredded cheddar, then wrapped in bacon and baked to perfection. The result is a crispy, spicy, and cheesy appetizer that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy these Spicy Jalapeno Poppers with a side of ranch or your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 jalapeno peppers
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 slices bacon
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
- In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into the jalapeno pepper halves.
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeno with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
- Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet, lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Spicy Jalapeno Poppers as an appetizer with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.
Interesting Facts
Jalapeno peppers get their spiciness from a compound called capsaicin.
The heat of jalapeno peppers can vary depending on factors like growing conditions and maturity.
Cream cheese and cheddar cheese combination creates a creamy and tangy filling for the jalapeno poppers.
Bacon adds a smoky and savory flavor to the poppers while helping to hold the filling together.
Jalapeno poppers are said to have originated in the United States and gained popularity as a bar food in the 1990s.