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A close-up shows delicious Cowboy Cream Cheese Jalapeno Poppers, perfect for appetizers or a spicy snack.

Best Cowboy Cream Cheese Jalapeno Poppers

These Cowboy Cream Cheese Jalapeno Poppers are a spicy, smoky, and creamy appetizer perfect for any gathering. Jalapenos are filled with a flavorful cream cheese mixture, wrapped in bacon, and baked or grilled to crispy perfection.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Southwestern
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 large jalapeno peppers
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon about 6 slices
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 12 slices bacon, cut in half
  • Optional: BBQ rub for dusting

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or aluminum foil
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon or piping bag
  • Gloves
  • Grapefruit spoon (optional)
  • Toothpicks (optional)
  • Oven or Grill

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Jalapenos: Wearing gloves, halve the jalapenos lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
  2. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Fill the Jalapenos: Spoon or pipe the cream cheese mixture into the jalapeno halves, mounding it slightly.
  4. Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each filled jalapeno with a half-slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
  5. Bake (or Grill): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. You can also grill these over medium heat, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the jalapenos are tender (about 15-20 minutes).
  6. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the filling is bubbly and golden brown.
  7. Cool and Serve: Let the poppers cool slightly before serving. Remove the toothpicks (if used) before serving.

Notes

For milder poppers, soak the jalapeno halves in ice water for 30 minutes before filling. Use thinner-cut bacon for optimal crispness. A touch of BBQ rub on the bacon adds a smoky sweetness. Store leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.