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Overhead shot of a white plate piled high with easy creamy jalapeño poppers, garnished with crispy bacon and fresh chives, ready to serve as a party appetizer.

Easy Creamy Jalapeño Poppers

Hilary PARKER
These easy creamy jalapeño poppers are the ultimate game day appetizer! Fresh jalapeño halves are stuffed with a rich blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and garlic, then topped with crispy bacon. Baked until bubbly and golden, they are ready in under 40 minutes.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American, Tex-Mex
Servings 10
Calories 179 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 10 large jalapeño peppers sliced in half lengthwise and seeded
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • 6 strips bacon cooked crispy and crumbled; divided
  • 3 tbsp fresh chives chopped; plus extra for garnish
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Wear gloves and slice jalapeños in half lengthwise; scoop out seeds and membranes with a small spoon.
  • Make Filling: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, 4 strips of crumbled bacon, minced garlic, chives, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  • Stuff Peppers: Spoon the cheese mixture into the jalapeño halves, pressing down gently to ensure they are level. Do not overfill.
  • Bake: Arrange poppers on the baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the filling is bubbly and the peppers are tender-crisp.
  • Finish & Serve: Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes. Top with the remaining crumbled bacon and fresh chives before serving warm.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Stuff the peppers up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the refrigerator. Add 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
  • Air Fryer Method: Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes.
  • Spice Level: Leave a few seeds in the filling if you prefer a spicier kick. Soak cut peppers in ice water for 30 minutes before stuffing to reduce heat further.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to crisp up the topping.

Nutrition

Serving: 2poppersCalories: 179kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 8gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 320mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 1g
Keyword bacon jalapeño poppers, baked jalapeño poppers, cream cheese stuffed peppers, easy creamy jalapeño poppers, game day appetizers, keto friendly appetizers
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