Get ready to transform your appetizer game with these irresistible Grilled Bacon Wrapped Poppers - a mouthwatering explosion of spicy, creamy, and crispy goodness that will have your guests begging for more! These aren't just any ordinary snack; they're a culinary adventure that combines the heat of jalapeños, the richness of cream cheese, and the ultimate crowd-pleaser: perfectly crisp bacon. Whether you're hosting a game day party, summer barbecue, or just craving an epic bite, these poppers are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 poppers
Ingredients
- 12 jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 12 slices bacon
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Prepare the jalapeño peppers by washing them thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, cut each pepper in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and white membranes to reduce heat intensity.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with garlic powder and onion powder. Mix until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese.
- Using a small spoon, fill each jalapeño half generously with the seasoned cream cheese mixture, ensuring the filling is level with the pepper's surface.
- Take bacon slices and cut them in half crosswise. Wrap each cream cheese-filled jalapeño half completely with a half slice of bacon, ensuring the bacon is snug but not too tight.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 375-400°F. If using a gas grill, set up direct and indirect heating zones.
- Place the bacon-wrapped poppers on the grill, positioning them on the indirect heat side to prevent burning. Close the grill lid and cook for 15-20 minutes.
- Rotate the poppers occasionally to ensure even cooking and crisp bacon. The poppers are done when the bacon is golden brown and crispy, and the cream cheese is heated through.
- Remove the poppers from the grill and let them rest for 3-5 minutes to cool slightly. This helps the cream cheese set and prevents burning.
- Transfer to a serving platter and serve hot as an appetizer or game-day snack. Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley.
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm jalapeños for the best texture and flavor. Look for peppers that are bright green and free from blemishes.
- For less heat, remove ALL seeds and membranes carefully. For more heat, leave some seeds intact.
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and spreading.
- Use toothpicks to secure bacon if it doesn't wrap smoothly around the peppers.
- Monitor grill temperature closely to prevent burning - indirect heat is key for even cooking.
- Let poppers rest after grilling to allow cream cheese to set and prevent burning your mouth.
- For extra flavor, experiment with different cheese blends or add shredded cheddar to the cream cheese mixture.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness and flavor impact!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
