Cowboy Jalapeño Poppers Recipe
Introduction
Cowboy Jalapeño Poppers are a spicy, cheesy appetizer perfect for game day or any casual gathering. These jalapeños stuffed with a creamy cheddar and bacon filling deliver a satisfying kick and rich flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 5 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 recipe Cowboy Cream Cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup (113 g) sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
- 10 large jalapeño peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded
- Ranch dressing, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the Cowboy Cream Cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until well mixed.
- Step 3: Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each jalapeño half with about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture.
- Step 4: Arrange the filled jalapeño halves on the prepared baking sheet. Place them close enough to support each other so they don’t tip over.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the crumbled cooked bacon evenly over the filled peppers for added flavor and crunch.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is heated through and the bacon becomes crisp.
- Step 7: Serve the jalapeño poppers warm with ranch dressing on the side for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder version, remove all seeds and ribs from the jalapeños to reduce heat.
- Substitute sharp cheddar with pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy kick.
- Use smoked bacon to add a deeper, smoky flavor to the poppers.
- Prepare the filling a day ahead and keep refrigerated to save time before baking.
Storage
Store leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the peppers soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cream cheese instead of Cowboy Cream Cheese?
Yes, fresh cream cheese can be used as a substitute; however, Cowboy Cream Cheese typically has added spices which enhance the flavor of these poppers.
How do I prevent the jalapeños from tipping over while baking?
Arrange the filled jalapeño halves close together on the baking sheet so they support one another and stay upright during baking.
PrintCowboy Jalapeño Poppers Recipe
Cowboy Jalapeño Poppers are a delicious appetizer featuring spicy jalapeño halves stuffed with a creamy blend of sharp cheddar cheese and cowboy cream cheese, topped with crispy crumbled bacon and baked to perfection. Served warm with ranch dressing, these poppers deliver a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and smoky flavor, making them ideal for parties or game-day snacks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 recipe Cowboy Cream Cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup (113 g) sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
Other Ingredients
- 10 large jalapeño peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded
- 5 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Ranch dressing, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, combine the room temperature Cowboy Cream Cheese with finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
- Fill Jalapeño Halves: Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each halved and seeded jalapeño with about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture, distributing it evenly.
- Arrange and Add Bacon: Place the filled jalapeño halves on the prepared baking sheet, arranging them closely without tipping over. Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled bacon evenly on top of each stuffed pepper.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is warmed through and the bacon topping is crispy and golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm with ranch dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy these flavorful poppers as a perfect appetizer or snack.
Notes
- You can adjust the heat level of the poppers by using milder or hotter jalapeños or by leaving some seeds in for extra spice.
- For a smoky twist, consider using smoked cheddar or adding a dash of smoked paprika to the cheese mixture.
- Make sure to properly seed the jalapeños to control the spice and make them more enjoyable for all palates.
- These poppers can be prepared in advance and baked right before serving to save time.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
Keywords: jalapeño poppers, cowboy cream cheese, baked appetizers, spicy snacks, bacon poppers, game day food, cheesy jalapeños
