Delicious Stuffed Jalapeños with Bacon: A Flavorful Recipe
Stuffed jalapeños with bacon are the perfect appetizer for any gathering, combining heat, flavor, and crunch in every bite. The smoky flavor of crispy bacon complements the spicy kick of jalapeños, while a creamy filling elevates this dish to a new level. Whether for game day, barbecues, or festive parties, these stuffed jalapeños are sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for more.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
To make these enticing stuffed jalapeños, you will need the following ingredients:
- 8 medium-sized fresh jalapeños
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment
Gather the following equipment to help you prepare and cook your stuffed jalapeños:
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil (optional)
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or spatula
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to prepare the perfect stuffed jalapeños with bacon:
1. Prepare the Jalapeños
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, wash the jalapeños under cold water. Using a sharp knife, cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and white membranes to reduce their heat level. Set aside.
2. Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it is crispy. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, place the bacon on a paper towel to drain and absorb excess grease. Let it cool slightly before chopping it into small pieces.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and chopped cilantro (if using). Add salt and pepper to taste, then mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined. Fold in the chopped bacon pieces for an added crunch and flavor.
4. Stuff the Jalapeños
Take a jalapeño half and use a spoon or piping bag to fill it with the cream cheese mixture. Ensure you fill each jalapeño generously as it will help keep them moist during cooking.
5. Wrap with Bacon
After stuffing the jalapeños, wrap each one with a slice of bacon. You can secure the bacon with a toothpick if necessary, ensuring that it covers the cream cheese filling as much as possible to prevent it from oozing out.
6. Bake the Jalapeños
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the stuffed jalapeños on the baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapeños are tender. Keep an eye on them to ensure they do not burn.
7. Serving
Once cooked, remove the stuffed jalapeños from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. This will also help the filling set a little more. Use a spatula to carefully transfer them to a serving platter.
Variations
While the traditional stuffed jalapeños with bacon are a classic, you can always experiment with different fillings and toppings to suit your taste. Here are some delicious variations:
- Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese such as pepper jack, goat cheese, or blue cheese for a unique flavor profile.
- Meat Add-Ins: Incorporate cooked sausage or shredded chicken into the cream cheese mixture for a heartier filling.
- Spicy Twists: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, you can skip the bacon and use a mixture of sautéed vegetables like onion, mushrooms, and bell peppers mixed with the cream cheese.
Storage
If you have leftovers (which is rare, but possible!), you can store your stuffed jalapeños with bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for a quicker option.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed jalapeños with bacon are versatile and can be served alongside a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Pair them with a creamy ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce.
- Serve them as a side dish to grilled meats or alongside a fresh salad.
- Include them in a spread of finger foods for parties, alongside items such as sliders, wings, or vegetable platters.
- For a fun twist, serve them on nachos with melted cheese and guacamole.
In conclusion, stuffed jalapeños with bacon are a crowd-pleasing recipe that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you are hosting a party or preparing a game day snack, these stuffed peppers are sure to be a hit. Try out this recipe for a delicious, unforgettable appetizer!