Gather your friends and get ready for a flavor explosion with these Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Poppers with Creamy Dip! This irresistible appetizer is a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a delicious snack, these poppers are sure to be the star of the show.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Poppers with Creamy Dip
These Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Poppers are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer. The combination of creamy, melty cheese, crispy bacon, and the perfect amount of heat from the jalapeños is simply irresistible. The creamy dip adds a cool, tangy contrast that perfectly complements the flavors of the poppers. Plus, this recipe is easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from game days to holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
The key ingredients for these Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Poppers include jalapeños, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon, and a few simple seasonings. The creamy dip features a blend of sour cream, mayonnaise, and fresh herbs.
- 12 jalapeños – halved lengthwise, seeds and membranes removed
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, halved
- 1 tsp. garlic powder, 1 tsp. onion powder, 1/2 tsp. salt
Ingredient Substitutions
- Jalapeños: Use fewer jalapeños or opt for a milder pepper, such as Anaheim or Poblano, for a less spicy version.
- Cheese: Experiment with different cheese varieties, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
How to Make Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Poppers with Creamy Dip
Follow these simple steps to create these delightful Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Poppers with a cool, creamy dip.
Step 1: Prep Work
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to adjust the heat level. In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Carefully spoon the cheese mixture into the jalapeño halves, pressing it in to fill the cavities. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a half slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Arrange the wrapped jalapeño poppers on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly. While the poppers are baking, prepare the creamy dip by combining 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, and 2 tbsp. finely chopped fresh herbs (such as chives, parsley, or dill).
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Once the poppers are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Arrange the poppers on a platter and serve with the creamy dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy these Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Poppers with Creamy Dip while they’re hot and crispy!
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Spicier Version: Leave some of the seeds and membranes in the jalapeños for a spicier kick.
- Cheese Variations: Try using Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack cheese for a unique flavor profile.
- Wrap in Prosciutto or Pancetta: For an even more indulgent version, try wrapping the poppers in prosciutto or pancetta instead of bacon.
- Customize the Creamy Dip: Add different fresh herbs or spices to the dip to suit your taste preferences.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: Fresh vegetables, chips, or crackers.
Storage: Leftover poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy dip can be stored for up to 5 days.
Reheat: Reheat the poppers in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed jalapeños in advance and bake them just before serving for a quick and easy appetizer.
Nutrition Information
These Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Poppers with Creamy Dip are a rich and indulgent appetizer, but a few simple adjustments can make them a bit more nutritious. By using low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheddar cheese, you can cut down on the overall fat and calorie content. Additionally, serving the poppers with a side of fresh vegetables or a light salad can help balance out the meal.
- Serving Size: 2 poppers with 2 tbsp. dip
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Carbs: 4 g
- Fat: 23 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these poppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed jalapeños in advance and bake them just before serving. Simply assemble the poppers, wrap them in bacon, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To make the poppers milder, remove more of the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. For a spicier version, leave some of the seeds and membranes intact.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, such as Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack, to customize the flavor profile.
How do I prevent the bacon from becoming soggy?
Make sure to wrap the bacon tightly around the stuffed jalapeños and bake them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This will allow the bacon to get crispy all around.
Can I freeze these poppers?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked poppers for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Poppers with Creamy Dip
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: 🥨 Appetizers, Snacks & Party Bites
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Poppers are the perfect appetizers for your next party. Spicy, cheesy, and crispy, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
8 fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Cooking spray
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, pressing it in firmly.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the stuffed jalapeños.
5. Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking spray.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the jalapeños are tender and the tops are golden brown.
7. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Serve with a creamy dip made from sour cream mixed with ranch seasoning for an extra delicious flavor!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 poppers
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Jalapeño Poppers, Bacon, Cheese, Snacks