Description
Delicious Bacon Wrapped Cheesy Stuffed Jalapeños featuring creamy cream cheese, sharp cheddar, garlic, and smoky paprika all wrapped in crispy bacon, perfect as a flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Jalapeños
- 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Wrapping
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half widthwise
- 24 toothpicks
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and place a cooling rack on top. Set aside.
- Prepare Peppers: Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and center membranes to reduce heat. Arrange the halves cut-side up on a plate.
- Make Filling: Using a handheld or stand mixer with paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, and smoked paprika until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Taste and add a pinch of salt if desired.
- Assemble Jalapeños: Evenly spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a half slice of bacon and secure it using a toothpick through the center. Place the assembled jalapeños on the prepared rack.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 28 minutes or until the bacon is browned and crisp. For extra crispiness, switch the oven to broil for the last minute, watching them closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Serve the bacon wrapped stuffed jalapeños warm. Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the stuffed jalapeños up to 1 day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Special Tools: Use a baking sheet, silicone baking mat or parchment paper, cooling rack, and an electric mixer or silicone spatula for best results.
- Peppers Swap: For a milder flavor, substitute jalapeños with mini sweet peppers.
- Cheese Alternatives: Try shredded Mexican-style or pepper jack cheese for a different taste. Using freshly shredded cheese from a block yields better melting.
- Air Fryer Option: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (191°C). Air fry stuffed jalapeños in a single layer for 10 to 12 minutes until bacon is crisp. Cook in batches if necessary.
