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Keto Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers - Spicy, Cheesy, and Crispy

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Fresh jalapeños (10–12 medium, about 3–4 inches long)
  • Cream cheese (8 oz, softened)
  • Shredded sharp cheddar (1 cup)
  • Cooked, crumbled bacon or bacon bits (optional for extra bacon flavor, 2–3 tbsp)
  • Garlic powder (1/2 tsp)
  • Onion powder (1/2 tsp)
  • Smoked paprika (1/2 tsp; optional but delicious)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • Thin-cut bacon strips (10–12 slices, cut in half crosswise)
  • Fresh chives or green onions (optional, for garnish)
  • Toothpicks (optional, to secure bacon)
  • Nonstick spray or parchment paper (to line the baking sheet)

Method
 

  1. Heat the oven: Preheat to 400°F (205°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment or a wire rack set over foil for easier cleanup.
  2. Prep the peppers: Slice jalapeños lengthwise and scoop out seeds and membranes with a small spoon. For less heat, remove all the white pith. For more kick, leave a bit in.
  3. Make the filling: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Fold in crumbled bacon if using.
  4. Fill the halves: Spoon or pipe the mixture into each jalapeño half, slightly mounding it so it’s flush but not overflowing.
  5. Wrap with bacon: Use a half slice of thin-cut bacon per popper. Start at one end and spiral-wrap to the other, slightly overlapping to cover the filling. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
  6. Arrange to crisp: Place poppers seam-side down on the rack or parchment, leaving space so air can circulate. This helps the bacon crisp.
  7. Bake: Cook for 18–22 minutes, until bacon is browned and crisp and filling is bubbly. For extra crispness, broil 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
  8. Rest: Let them sit 5 minutes to set the cheese and protect your tongue from lava-level heat.
  9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions. Serve hot with a creamy dip if you like (ranch or a keto-friendly herbed sour cream).