Bacon-wrapped cheesy jalapeño bites are my go-to snack whenever I’m hosting a party or have guests dropping by unannounced. From prep to cooking, these cheesy, bacon-wrapped appetizers come together in just 30 minutes. They’re also great when you need something quick for a last-minute craving.
As someone who loves hosting festive gatherings and BBQ nights, I’ve found that they disappear quickly at parties. They’re delicious on their own, but I like serving them with ranch or your classic ketchup.
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Cheesy Jalapeno Bites
INGREDIENTS:
- 15 raw bacon slices
- 8 fresh jalapeño chiles
- 10 oz softened cream cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1¼ cups grated cheddar
- Oil spray for greasing
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and inner ribs. Set the jalapeño halves aside for later.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the shredded cheddar, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then mix well.
3. Fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture.
4. Take a slice of bacon and carefully wrap it around the stuffed jalapeño. Stretch it gently as you wrap, making sure it reaches the other end. Keep stretching it gently reaching all the way to the other end. Repeat with the remaining jalapenos.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 385°F and grease the basket with cooking spray. Arrange the bacon-wrapped jalapenos in a single layer, leaving enough space between each one. Lightly brush the poppers with oil.
6. Air fry the bites for about 20 minutes, giving the basket a gentle shake every 5 minutes for even cooking. Wait for the bacon to turn golden brown. Once done, let the poppers cool for a minute or two before serving.
Serve and Enjoy!
Important Recipe Notes:
- Protect your hands: Wear kitchen gloves while handling jalapeños to prevent irritation to skin or eyes.
- Go for thin bacon: Thinly cut bacon takes less time to cook and crisps up better than thicker slices.
- Do not overcrowd: Air fry in a single layer without overcrowding the basket. This helps the bacon cook evenly and turn crispy.
- Whip the cream cheese: Beat the cream cheese until silky smooth before filling the jalapeños for a better texture.
- Make them ahead: Assemble ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and air fry just before serving.
Bacon-Wrapped Cheesy Jalapeno Bites
Ingredients
Method
- Slice the jalapeños lengthwise, then remove the seeds and inner ribs.
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Mix in cheddar, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture.
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a bacon slice, ensuring the filling is covered.
- Preheat the air fryer to 385°F and lightly grease the basket. Arrange the bites in a single layer and lightly spray with oil.
- Air fry for about 20 minutes, shaking every 5 minutes, until the bacon is crisp and golden. Let cool briefly before serving.