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Cheesy Bacon Jalapeno Bites

This dish combines crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeno peppers filled with melty cheese, formed into bite-sized balls. The cheese melts inside during baking, creating a gooey interior with a crunchy exterior. The result is a spicy, cheesy snack with a smoky, savory flavor and a satisfying crunch.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 slices bacon strips preferably sliced thick
  • 4 large jalapenos medium-sized, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese softened
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for added flavor
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Cooking parchment or silicone baking mat
  • Toothpicks or skewers

Method
 

  1. Chop the bacon slices into small pieces and cook in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess grease and set aside.
    8 slices bacon strips
  2. Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise, remove seeds and membranes, then dice them finely. Mix the diced jalapenos with shredded cheese, softened cream cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl until well combined.
    4 large jalapenos, 1 cup shredded cheese, 2 tablespoons cream cheese, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, to taste salt and pepper
  3. Form the cheese and jalapeno mixture into small, uniform balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone mat.
  4. Wrap each cheese ball with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick or skewer. Arrange the bacon-wrapped balls on the baking sheet, ensuring the bacon is seam-side down.
    8 slices bacon strips
  5. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly and melted. The bacon should be browned and slightly crisped at the edges.
  6. Remove from oven, allow to cool slightly, then remove toothpicks and serve warm. The bites will have a crispy exterior with a gooey, cheesy interior filled with spicy jalapenos.

Notes

For extra heat, add more jalapenos or a touch of hot sauce to the cheese filling. Ensure bacon is evenly wrapped for consistent crispiness.