Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe: A Spicy, Cheesy Treat

Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe: A Spicy, Cheesy Treat

Stuffed jalapeños are the perfect appetizer for any gathering, combining a delightful kick of heat with creamy goodness and smoky bacon. This easy-to-make recipe features fresh jalapeños filled with cream cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, and baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a savory snack, these stuffed jalapeños are sure to impress!

Ingredients

To make delicious stuffed jalapeños, gather the following ingredients:

  • 12 fresh jalapeños
  • 8 oz. cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 12 slices of bacon
  • Optional: chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Slice the Jalapeños: Carefully cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and membranes for less heat, or leave them in if you prefer more spice.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. Mix the Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy.

Step 3: Stuff the Jalapeños

  1. Fill the Jalapeños: Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. Pack it in generously, as the filling will expand during baking.

Step 4: Wrap with Bacon

  1. Wrap in Bacon: Cut each bacon slice in half and wrap one piece around each stuffed jalapeño. Secure with a toothpick if necessary. Make sure the ends of the bacon are tucked under the jalapeño to prevent unraveling during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Stuffed Jalapeños

  1. Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

  2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly. If you want extra crispiness, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Garnish: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly. If desired, garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro.

  2. Enjoy: Serve the stuffed jalapeños warm as a delicious appetizer or snack. They pair perfectly with your favorite dipping sauces or as a side dish!

Tips for the Best Stuffed Jalapeños

  1. Choose Fresh Jalapeños: Look for firm, bright green jalapeños that are free of blemishes. The fresher the peppers, the better the flavor.

  2. Adjust the Heat: If you prefer milder jalapeños, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes. For extra heat, leave some of the seeds in or choose spicier varieties.

  3. Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative! You can add cooked sausage, crab meat, or different cheeses to the filling for added flavor.

  4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed jalapeños in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.

Conclusion

Stuffed jalapeños are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines heat, creaminess, and savory goodness in every bite. This simple recipe is perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy night in. With crispy bacon and a cheesy filling, these treats are guaranteed to be a hit!