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Cheddar Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers

These jalapeño poppers are a fun, messy delight that combine spicy peppers with a rich, cheesy filling, wrapped in crispy bacon. The dish is baked until bubbling and golden, resulting in a crispy exterior and gooey, melty interior. Perfect for sharing at summer gatherings or as a flavorful snack, they celebrate imperfectly perfect, cheesy chaos.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 large jalapeño peppers firm, bright green, heavy
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese preferably aged for deep flavor
  • 2 oz softened cream cheese let sit at room temperature
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 slices bacon cut in half lengthwise
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for flavor
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone mat
  • Small spoon or piping bag
  • Paring knife or small spoon
  • Toothpicks
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Using a small paring knife or spoon, carefully slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove all seeds and membranes to tame the heat. Set aside.
  3. In a bowl, combine the shredded cheddar, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and smoked paprika. Mix until the filling is smooth, creamy, and well blended.
  4. Using a small spoon or piping bag, generously stuff each jalapeño half with the cheesy mixture, pressing gently to fill all the way to the edges.
  5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a half slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Brush the bacon-wrapped poppers lightly with olive oil to help them crisp up and gain a glossy finish.
  7. Bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and browned, and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes—the cheese will settle, making them easier to handle.
  9. Transfer the poppers to a serving platter, remove toothpicks, and serve hot with your favorite dip or a sprinkle of chopped herbs for garnish.

Notes

For a milder kick, remove all seeds from the peppers. To enhance flavor, chill the cheese mixture before stuffing. For extra crunch, pre-bake bacon for 5 minutes before wrapping.