Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapenos

This bacon wrapped stuffed jalapeno recipe delivers the perfect balance of spicy heat and creamy indulgence. The combination of smoky bacon, tangy goat cheese, and the bright kick of jalapenos creates an irresistible appetizer that disappears fast at any gathering. I've found these to be the crowd favorite at every backyard barbecue and game day party I've hosted.

I first made these for a summer cookout when I needed something quick but impressive. Now they're requested at every family gathering, and even my heat-sensitive relatives can't resist having at least one.

Ingredients

• Jalapenos: The star of the show provides the perfect vessel for the filling and delivers that signature heat. Look for firm peppers with smooth skin for the best results.
• Goat cheese: Adds a tangy creaminess that perfectly complements the spicy jalapenos. Choose a soft variety for easier mixing and stuffing.
• Smoked chipotle pepper: Brings a wonderful smoky depth that elevates the entire appetizer. The smokiness pairs beautifully with the bacon.
• Bacon: Select medium thickness bacon that will cook properly in the same time as the peppers. Avoid thick cut which may remain undercooked.
• Honey: Optional but recommended as it adds a subtle sweetness that balances the heat and smokiness. Use local honey if available for the best flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the jalapenos:

Carefully core and seed each jalapeno using a jalapeno corer for best results. Remove all seeds for milder heat or leave some in if you prefer more spice. Wear gloves to protect your skin from capsaicin burns.

Add honey component:

Drizzle approximately 1 teaspoon of honey into the bottom of each hollowed jalapeno. This creates a sweet base layer that will counterbalance the spice and complement the savory bacon.

Create the filling:

Mix the goat cheese and smoked chipotle pepper thoroughly in a small bowl until well combined. The chipotle should be evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture for consistent flavor in every bite.

Fill the peppers:

Use a knife to carefully scoop the cheese mixture into each pepper cavity. Fill each pepper about 3/4 full to prevent cheese from oozing out during cooking which creates a messy presentation and wastes your delicious filling.

Wrap with bacon:

Take a single slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeno creating a secure cocoon of flavor. Insert a toothpick through the center to hold the bacon in place during cooking as it will try to unwrap as it cooks.

Cook to perfection:

Either bake in a 350°F oven for 18 to 22 minutes or grill for approximately 25 minutes on the cooler side of the grill. The peppers should be tender and the bacon should be crispy and fully cooked with rendered fat.

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The smoked chipotle pepper is truly the secret ingredient that takes these from good to unforgettable. I discovered this by accident when I ran out of regular paprika and had to substitute. Now I would never make them any other way. The depth it adds makes guests ask what your secret is.

Make Ahead Options

These stuffed jalapenos are perfect for preparing in advance when entertaining. You can core, stuff, and wrap the peppers up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This makes them ideal for parties when you want to spend time with guests rather than in the kitchen. Just remove them from the refrigerator about 20 minutes before cooking to take the chill off.

Heat Level Customization

The spiciness of these jalapenos can be easily adjusted to suit different preferences. For maximum heat leave some of the white membrane intact inside the peppers as this contains most of the capsaicin. For a milder version thoroughly remove all seeds and white parts. You can also substitute poblano peppers for a much milder experience that still delivers great flavor. The cheese filling helps balance the heat nicely for most palates.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapenos are versatile enough to complement many different meal types. They make a fantastic appetizer for Mexican themed dinners or Tex Mex feasts. Serve them alongside grilled meats at summer barbecues for a flavor packed side dish. For a complete game day spread pair them with buffalo wings ranch dip and vegetable crudités. The combination of flavors works particularly well with cold beer or a margarita.

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ How spicy are these bacon wrapped jalapenos?

The spice level depends largely on the jalapenos themselves, which can vary in heat. Removing all seeds and membranes (as instructed) significantly reduces the heat level, making them enjoyable for most people. The creamy goat cheese and sweet honey also help balance the spiciness. If you're sensitive to heat, you can soak the cored jalapenos in cold water for 30 minutes before stuffing to reduce spiciness further.

→ Can I make these stuffed jalapenos ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these up to 24 hours in advance. Complete all steps up to the cooking stage, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply cook as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time since they'll be cold from the refrigerator. This makes them perfect for entertaining or parties.

→ What can I substitute for goat cheese?

If you don't enjoy or have access to goat cheese, cream cheese makes an excellent substitute. You can also try a mixture of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a different flavor profile. Feta cheese, while more crumbly, can work well too. Just make sure whatever cheese you use will hold up to the heat without completely melting out.

→ Do I really need a jalapeno corer?

While a jalapeno corer makes the job easier and creates more uniform peppers, it's not essential. You can use a small paring knife to carefully cut around the stem and remove it along with the seeds and membranes. A small measuring spoon or butter knife can help scrape out the inside. Just be careful when handling the jalapenos and consider wearing gloves to protect your hands.

→ What's the best type of bacon to use?

Regular-cut bacon works best for these jalapenos. Thick-cut bacon might not crisp up properly in the specified cooking time, while thin-cut bacon may cook too quickly and potentially burn. For flavor variations, try applewood or maple-smoked bacon for a subtle sweetness that complements the spicy jalapenos well.

→ Can these be cooked in an air fryer?

Absolutely! These stuffed jalapenos work beautifully in an air fryer. Cook at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes, checking for bacon crispness. This method actually creates extra crispy bacon while keeping the filling perfectly melted. Just make sure to place them in a single layer and not overcrowd the air fryer basket.