Jalapeno Poppers with Smoked Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Smoked Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeno peppers; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 4 oz smoked cheese, shredded; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp cumin; 12 slices of bacon, cut in half; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking spray

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Smoked Cheese! The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy, smoky cheese creates a perfect balance that excites my taste buds every time. I often make these for gatherings, and they never fail to impress. Preparing them is quite simple, and the result is a delicious appetizer that brings everyone together. Whether you enjoy them during a game day or as a fun snack, these poppers are bound to be a hit with family and friends.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:31:08.334Z

When I first experimented with Jalapeno Poppers, I knew I wanted to elevate them with smoked cheese, and the result was nothing short of magical. The smoky flavor adds depth that traditional cheese simply can't match. I recommend mixing in some spices for an extra kick—cumin and garlic powder pair beautifully with the jalapenos.

After multiple attempts, I found that using a combination of cream cheese and smoked cheese provides a creamy texture that complements the heat perfectly. Don't forget to wrap them in bacon for an added crunch; the flavor infusion will leave everyone asking for the recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy kick balanced by creamy smoked cheese
Easy to prepare and perfect for any gathering
Deliciously crunchy texture from the bacon wrap

      

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Jalapeno Poppers

When preparing jalapeno poppers, controlling the heat is crucial. Removing all the seeds and the white pith inside the jalapenos will significantly reduce their spiciness. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider leaving a few seeds in the peppers or using fresher jalapenos. I recommend wearing gloves while handling them to avoid any irritation from the oils.

Choosing the right cheese is also key to achieving the perfect flavor. The smoky cheese adds depth to the creamy texture of the cream cheese, giving these poppers their unique taste. If you don't have smoked cheese, a sharp cheddar can work as a substitute but will lack the smokiness. Mixing in a pinch of smoked paprika can mimic that flavor profile.

Bacon Wrapping Tips

Wrapping the jalapeno halves in bacon not only enhances the flavor but also provides a delightful crunch. To prevent the bacon from becoming rubbery, make sure to place the poppers on a wire rack on top of your baking sheet. This allows air to circulate and keeps the bacon crispy on all sides during baking. Additionally, partially cooking the bacon for about 5 minutes in the microwave before wrapping can help render out some fat and ease the cooking process.

Using toothpicks to secure the bacon can sometimes be necessary, especially if the bacon is thick-cut. Just be careful when serving, as the toothpicks can easily be forgotten and pose a choking hazard. Another option is to use butcher's twine to tie the bacon around the poppers, giving them a rustic look.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers make an excellent appetizer for parties or game days. To elevate your presentation, consider serving them with dipping sauces such as ranch or a tangy BBQ sauce. The coolness of the ranch contrasts beautifully with the heat of the jalapenos. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or chives on top for an added pop of color.

If you're looking to make these ahead of time, you can assemble the poppers and freeze them before baking. Place the uncooked poppers on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer them to a resealable bag. They can be baked straight from the freezer, but extend the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes to ensure they're heated through.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Jalapeno Poppers with Smoked Cheese:

Ingredients

12 large jalapeno peppers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 oz smoked cheese, shredded
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp cumin
12 slices of bacon, cut in half
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let's dive into the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds to control the heat level.

Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded smoked cheese, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, ensuring they are generously filled.

Wrap with Bacon

Wrap each stuffed jalapeno with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick if necessary.

Bake

Place the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray with cooking spray and bake for 20 minutes or until bacon is crispy.

Once baked, let the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious creations!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding diced onions or jalapeno seeds into the cheese filling for additional heat. Serving these poppers with a dipping sauce, like ranch or spicy mayo, can enhance the experience even further.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making jalapeno poppers is that the bacon may not cook evenly. Ensure you're using bacon that is not too thick, as this can prevent it from crisping up properly. If the bacon is still undercooked after the poppers are baked for 20 minutes, consider finishing them off under the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Another potential problem is the cheese mixture leaking out of the jalapenos while baking. To prevent this, make sure to fill the peppers generously but not overstuff them. Also, packing the filling tightly can help keep it from bubbling over.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're hosting a larger gathering, this recipe is easily scalable. For every additional 12 jalapenos, increase the cream cheese by 4 oz and smoked cheese by 2 oz. Keep the spices proportional to maintain the flavor balance. This way, you can keep the same great taste without overwhelming the dish.

When scaling, consider doubling up on the bacon as well, as this is one of the key elements that creates that addictive crunch. You might even want to experiment with various types of meats like turkey bacon, which can offer a different texture and flavor for those looking for a lighter alternative.

Variations to Try

For a fun twist, consider adding additional flavoring to your cheese mixture, such as diced jalapenos for extra heat or sautéed onions and garlic for a savory depth. Experimenting with different cheeses like pepper jack can also add a delightful kick and creaminess, enhancing the overall experience.

You can also create a vegetarian version of these poppers by substituting bacon for a crispy plant-based alternative. Firm tofu cubes seasoned with your favorite spices and baked until crispy could work well. This way, you can cater to different dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them and refrigerate them before baking. Just increase the baking time by a few minutes if they're cold.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the bacon or use a vegetarian alternative, such as vegan bacon or leave them unwrapped.