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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers on the Grill

bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a perfect BBQ snack featuring a creamy, cheesy filling with a spicy kick, wrapped in smoky, crisp bacon and grilled to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium fresh jalapeños, firm and bright green
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (100 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse 12 fresh jalapeños under cold water. Cut each in half lengthwise using a sharp knife, then carefully scoop out seeds and membranes with a small spoon (leave some seeds if you want more heat). Set aside.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix well until creamy and evenly blended.
  3. Using a spoon or small scoop, fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture. Don’t overstuff or the filling may ooze out during grilling.
  4. Take one slice of thin-cut bacon and wrap it tightly around the filled jalapeño half. Secure with a toothpick or skewer. Repeat for all poppers.
  5. Light your grill to medium heat (about 350°F / 175°C). If using charcoal, wait until the coals are covered in white ash. Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
  6. Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños on the grill over indirect heat, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes. Turn every 5 minutes using tongs to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. The bacon should be crisp and the jalapeños tender.
  7. Move poppers to direct heat briefly if bacon needs more crisping, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
  8. Check that the filling is bubbly and melted, bacon is crisp, and jalapeños are soft but not mushy. Remove carefully with tongs and let cool for a couple of minutes before serving.

Notes

Use thin-cut bacon for best crispiness. Soak wooden toothpicks in water if using a charcoal grill to prevent burning. Cook over indirect heat and turn often to avoid burning. Do not overstuff jalapeños to prevent filling leakage. If bacon edges burn before filling is done, move poppers to a cooler part of the grill or reduce heat. Can be baked or air fried if no grill is available.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon-wrapped, BBQ snacks, grilled appetizers, spicy snacks, party food, easy recipe