Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Cream Cheese Jalapeño Poppers (Smoky, Cheesy & Spicy Perfection)

🛒 Ingredients

• 6 large fresh jalapeño peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 green onions, finely minced
• 12 slices standard thin-cut bacon (halved crosswise)
• Wooden toothpicks (soaked in water for 10 mins)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Set a wire roasting rack inside a large rimmed baking sheet (this allows bacon fat to drain and ensures all-around crispness).
2. 2
   Wearing disposable gloves, slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise through the stem. Use a small spoon to scrape out all white membranes and seeds.
3. 3
   In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and minced green onions until smooth.
4. 4
   Spoon about 1 to 2 tablespoons of cheese mixture into each pepper cavity, leveling the top flush with the pepper edges.
5. 5
   Wrap each filled pepper half with a strip of bacon, starting at one end and overlapping slightly. Secure the bacon tail with a wooden toothpick.
6. 6
   Arrange poppers on the wire rack. Bake at 400°F for 22 to 26 minutes until bacon is browned, crispy, and cheese is bubbling.
7. 7
   Broil on HIGH for the final 1 to 2 minutes for extra bacon crispness. Let rest 5 minutes before serving warm!

🥗 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)