Ingredients with Measurements:
- 12 jalapeno peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 12 slices of bacon
- Toothpicks
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Stuff each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture.
5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeno half with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
6. Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
This recipe makes 24 bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers.
Nutritional information:
Each serving (2 poppers) contains approximately:
- 220 calories
- 18g fat
- 9g saturated fat
- 25mg cholesterol
- 450mg sodium
- 4g carbohydrates
- 1g fiber
- 2g sugar
- 9g protein
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of cream cheese, you can use goat cheese or ricotta cheese.
- Instead of cheddar cheese, you can use pepper jack cheese or mozzarella cheese.
- Instead of bacon, you can use prosciutto or pancetta.
Variations:
- Add chopped cooked shrimp or crab meat to the cheese mixture for a seafood twist.
- Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor.
- Use mini sweet peppers instead of jalapenos for a milder version.
Tips and tricks:
- Wear gloves when handling the jalapeno peppers to avoid getting the spicy oils on your skin.
- If you want a spicier version, leave some of the seeds and membranes in the jalapeno halves.
- Make sure to secure the bacon with toothpicks to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.
- For a smokier flavor, use smoked bacon.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftover bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the poppers on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers on a platter and garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
Garnishes:
Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
Pairings:
Serve with a cold beer or a margarita.
Suggested side dishes:
- Guacamole and tortilla chips
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Coleslaw
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bacon is not crispy enough, you can broil the poppers for a few minutes at the end of cooking.
- If the cheese mixture is too thick, you can add a splash of milk to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and any utensils or surfaces that come into contact with the jalapeno peppers to avoid cross-contamination.
- Cook the bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.
Food history:
Jalapeno poppers are believed to have originated in Texas in the 1970s.
Flavor profiles:
Spicy, creamy, savory, and smoky.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or snack at a party or game day gathering.
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