Name: Smoked Bacon Jalapeno Poppers
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 8 fresh jalapeños; 8 ounces cream cheese; 8 slices bacon

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Smoky Bliss: Smoked Bacon Jalapeno Poppers Recipe – Easy, Spicy, and Irresistible!

Calling all spice lovers and cheese enthusiasts! Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with this Smoked Bacon Jalapeno Poppers recipe. These bite-sized bundles of deliciousness combine the creamy richness of cream cheese, the smoky goodness of bacon, and the fiery kick of jalapenos for an explosion of flavor in every bite.

Smoked vs. Baked? You Decide!

This recipe offers the best of both worlds: the low and slow cooking magic of a smoker or the convenience of your oven. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a weeknight cook looking for a quick and easy appetizer, this recipe has you covered!

The Allure of Smoked Poppers:

Smoking your jalapeno poppers infuses them with a unique smoky flavor that traditional oven-baked methods simply can’t replicate. This low and slow cooking process also helps to soften the jalapenos while still leaving them with a satisfying crunch, creating the perfect textural contrast with the creamy cheese filling.

Oven Baked for Convenience:

If you don’t have a smoker or are short on time, fear not! This recipe can be easily adapted for the oven. Simply bake your jalapeno poppers at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Spice Up Your Life (or Not):

The beauty of this recipe lies in its customizability. Choose your favorite jalapenos: classic red for a moderate kick, vibrant green for a milder flavor, or even habaneros (pictured below) for the truly adventurous!

Ready to Assemble Your Flavor Bombs?

Gather your ingredients and let’s get popping!

Ingredients:

Fresh Jalapenos: Choose your desired level of heat – red, green, or habanero!
Cream Cheese: The creamy base for the filling. Use softened cream cheese for easy spreading.
Shredded Cheese (Optional): Add an extra layer of flavor with your favorite shredded cheese, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack.
Thinly Sliced Bacon: Choose a good quality bacon for the best flavor.
Spices (Optional): A sprinkle of paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper can add a touch of extra flavor.
Fresh Cilantro (Optional): A final flourish of fresh cilantro adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness.

Instructions:

Both Methods:

Prep the Jalapenos: Wash and dry the jalapenos. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and membranes for a milder popper. Tip: Wear gloves if you’re using very hot peppers!
Craft the Creamy Filling: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. If using shredded cheese, fold it gently into the cream cheese mixture at this point. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add any other desired spices like paprika or garlic powder.
Fill ‘Er Up!: Carefully fill each jalapeno half with the cream cheese mixture. Don’t overstuff them, as the filling will expand slightly during cooking.

For Smoked Jalapeno Poppers:

Preheat Your Smoker: Get your smoker fired up and preheated to 225°F (110°C). Add your chosen wood chips for smoke flavor. Hickory or applewood work particularly well with these poppers.
Wrap and Smoke: Wrap each jalapeno half with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary. Place the poppers on your smoker grate and smoke for about 1-2 hours, or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapenos are tender.

Oven-Baked Jalapeno Poppers:

Bake Until Bubbly: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let Them Rest: Once cooked, remove the jalapeno poppers from the smoker or oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and prevents burning your mouth!

The Grand Finale: Devour and Enjoy!

Presentation is Key: Plate your Smoked Bacon Jalapeno Poppers on a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing touch.
Serve with a Smile: These poppers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Serve them as an appetizer at your next gathering, a fun game-day snack, or a delicious addition to a barbecue spread.
Get Creative!: Feel free to experiment with different fillings and toppings. Try adding crumbled cooked sausage to the cream cheese, or drizzle them with a touch of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.

Watch how to make this recipe!

Want to see the entire process come to life visually? Check out this video where I walk you through every step of making these delicious Smoked Bacon Jalapeno Poppers! So fire up your smoker (or preheat your oven!), grab your favorite peppers, and get ready to create a flavor explosion that will have everyone begging for more!

Bonus Tip: Leftovers? While not the most common occurrence, if you have any leftover Smoked Bacon Jalapeno Poppers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Now go forth and conquer the world of spicy appetizers! With this recipe and a little creativity, you’re sure to become the jalapeno popper master in your friend group. Happy smoking (or baking) and happy eating!

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