Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

When it comes to iconic party apps, jalapeño poppers deserve a major spot in the appetizer hall of fame. In this recipe, cream cheese and shredded pepper jack are stuffed in the jalapeños before being wrapped in smoky bacon (because everything is better with bacon). When cooked, the cheese gets hot and melty while the peppers mellow slightly, making every bite a perfect combo of flavors. Make these poppable bites for your Super Bowl party, and watch them disappear in no time. 

YIELDS:24 serving(s) PREP TIME:15 mins TOTAL TIME:45 mins CAL/SERV:119

Ingredients:

• 1 (8-oz.) block cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 c. shredded pepper jack 
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Kosher salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• 12 jalapeños
• 12 slices bacon, halved

Directions:

• FOR THE OVEN:
  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, pepper jack, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Step 2: Halve jalapeños lengthwise, then use a spoon to remove seeds and veins. Fill with cheese mixture and wrap each with a halved slice of bacon.
  3. Step 3: Place on a baking sheet and bake until bacon is crispy and peppers are tender, about 35-40 minutes.
• FOR THE AIR FRYER:
  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, pepper jack, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Step 2: Halve jalapeños lengthwise, then use a spoon to remove seeds and veins. Fill with cheese mixture and wrap each with a halved slice of bacon.
  3. Step 3: Working in batches, place jalapeños in a single layer in air-fryer basket. Cook at 400° until cheese is bubbly and bacon is cooked through, 10 to 12 minutes.

Nutrition InformationPer Serving (Serves 24)

Calories119 Fat11 g Saturated fat5 g Trans fat0 g Cholesterol25 mg Sodium181 mg Carbohydrates1 g Fiber0 g Sugar1 g Protein4 g Vitamin D0 mcg Calcium64 mg Iron0 mg Potassium67 mg