If you’re craving a bold, savory appetizer that packs a punch, look no further than these Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers. Filled with a creamy and flavorful mixture of cream cheese, ground beef, and a hint of Buffalo wing sauce, these poppers are perfect for any casual gathering, whether it’s game day, a Super Bowl party, or a simple get-together. The combination of smoky bacon, spicy jalapenos, and creamy cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients for Bacon-Wrapped Jalapenos with Buffalo Cream Cheese:
- 16 medium jalapeno peppers, washed, halved lengthwise, and cleaned out
- 1 package (8 oz / 225 g) cream cheese, softened (at room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) onion powder
- 8 oz (225 g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 3/4 lb (340 g) browned and drained ground beef
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) Buffalo wing sauce (adjust for spiciness)
- 1 lb (450 g) thin bacon, cut in half
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers with Buffalo Cream Cheese:
- Cook and drain the ground beef. Set it aside.
- Wash the jalapenos. Cut off the stems first, then slice them lengthwise. Scrape out all the seeds (it’s a good idea to wear gloves for this step).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay the jalapeno halves on the sheet. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, 4 oz (115 g) of shredded cheddar cheese (reserve the remaining 4 oz / 115 g for later), cooked ground beef, and Buffalo wing sauce.
- Carefully spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling them generously.
- Cut the bacon into halves.
- Place a slice of bacon under each stuffed jalapeno half, then sprinkle a small amount of shredded cheese on top of each popper.
- Wrap a piece of bacon around each jalapeno and secure it with a toothpick. Repeat the process for all the jalapeno halves.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bacon becomes crispy.
- Once the poppers are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before handling.
- Remember to wear gloves while handling the jalapenos, as they can be quite spicy.
These bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers with Buffalo cream cheese are a game-changing appetizer that balances heat, creaminess, and smokiness in every bite. The crispy bacon perfectly complements the rich, flavorful filling, making them a great option for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a snack for your favorite sports game or bringing them to a party, these poppers are sure to disappear quickly!
