Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Jalapeños (Jalapeño Poppers)
Summer has officially begun and we are already reaping the benefits of Granddaddy Champ's garden here in South Carolina. For years he's been plowing up the small field behind his house early in the spring to plant a variety of vegetables. He keeps our kitchens stocked with tomatoes and cucumbers all summer long.
This year, we are already enjoying his jalapeños. My favorite way to eat jalapeños is stuffed and wrapped in bacon! This is the perfect summer appetizer that can be thrown on the grill right alongside burgers and hot dogs. If you aren't grilling, you can easily pop them in the oven as well.
I’ve included both ways below to make it fast and easy no matter which way you choose!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18-23 minutes
Total Time: About 30 minutes
Servings: 12 poppers
Ingredients:
6 jalapeños
12 slices of bacon
6 ounces cream cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar
1 green onion chopped finely
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
Cut the stem off each jalapeño and cut in half lengthwise.
Using a small spoon, scrape out seeds & membranes. This will keep the spice level lower.
In a small bowl combine cream cheese, green onion, garlic powder and cheddar cheese. Stuff into the jalapeño halves.
Wrap each jalapeño completely with bacon ensuring the cheese is covered. Secure with toothpicks.
To Grill
Place stuffed jalapeños on grill cut side down and grill just until bacon begins to crisp (about 6 minutes). (When cooking it this way, remember to wrap it tight with the bacon to keep the stuffing and cheese inside.)
Gently loosen bacon from the grill and flip jalapeños over.
Reduce heat to medium-low and grill an additional 10-12 minutes or until bacon is cooked and cheese is melted.
To Bake
Preheat oven to 425°F.
Place stuffed jalapeños on a parchment lined pan and bake about 18-23 minutes or until bacon is crisp and cheese is melted.
Enjoy!
