Elevate Your Appetizer Game: How To Cook Cream Cheese Jalapenos Wrapped In Bacon That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

Cream cheese jalapenos wrapped in bacon are a delightful appetizer or snack that combines the creamy texture of cream cheese, the spicy kick of jalapenos, and the savory crispiness of bacon. They are perfect for parties, game days, or simply enjoying as a tasty treat. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to cook cream cheese jalapenos wrapped in bacon, along with some helpful tips and variations to make them your own.

Ingredients:

• 12 jalapeno peppers
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 slices bacon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Jalapenos:

• Cut the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and ribs. Be sure to wear gloves while handling the jalapenos to prevent irritation from the capsaicin.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:

• In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cilantro, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Stuff the Jalapenos:

• Spoon the cream cheese filling into the jalapeno halves, making sure to fill them evenly.

4. Wrap with Bacon:

• Wrap each stuffed jalapeno half with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.

5. Bake or Air Fry:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the bacon-wrapped jalapenos on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes in the oven or air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapenos are tender.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Let the bacon-wrapped cream cheese jalapenos cool slightly before serving.
• Garnish with additional cilantro or chives if desired.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or sriracha.

Tips for Cooking Cream Cheese Jalapenos Wrapped in Bacon:

• To reduce the spiciness of the jalapenos, remove the seeds and ribs more thoroughly.
• If you don’t have fresh cilantro or chives, you can use dried herbs instead.
• You can also add other ingredients to the cream cheese filling, such as diced cooked chorizo, crumbled bacon, or grated cheese.
• For a vegetarian version, you can wrap the jalapenos with strips of phyllo dough instead of bacon.
• To make the bacon-wrapped jalapenos ahead of time, prepare them up to the point of baking or air frying. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Variations:

• Spicy Cream Cheese Jalapenos: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cream cheese filling for an extra kick.
• Cheesy Cream Cheese Jalapenos: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese to the cream cheese filling.
• Ranch Cream Cheese Jalapenos: Add 1/4 cup of ranch dressing mix to the cream cheese filling.
• Bacon-Wrapped Cream Cheese Poppers: Cut the jalapenos into 1-inch pieces instead of halves. Stuff them with cream cheese filling and wrap them with bacon. Bake or air fry until the bacon is crispy and the jalapenos are tender.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve bacon-wrapped cream cheese jalapenos as an appetizer or snack at parties or game days.
• Add them to your next taco or burrito bowl.
• Use them as a topping for nachos or quesadillas.
• Enjoy them as a side dish with grilled meats or fish.

Health Benefits of Jalapenos:

• Jalapenos contain capsaicin, a compound that has been shown to have several health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and aiding in weight loss.
• They are also a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and magnesium.

Key Points: A Spicy Delight for Every Occasion

Bacon-wrapped cream cheese jalapenos are a delicious and versatile snack or appetizer that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. With their combination of spicy, creamy, and savory flavors, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. So next time you’re looking for a tasty treat, give bacon-wrapped cream cheese jalapenos a try.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Can I make bacon-wrapped cream cheese jalapenos ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare them up to the point of baking or air frying. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q: Can I use other types of peppers instead of jalapenos?

A: Yes, you can use other types of peppers, such as serrano peppers, poblano peppers, or Anaheim peppers. Adjust the amount of peppers used based on their spiciness.

Q: Can I make bacon-wrapped cream cheese jalapenos without bacon?

A: Yes, you can wrap the jalapenos with strips of phyllo dough or crescent roll dough instead of bacon.