Ingredients with Measurements:
- 12 jalapeno peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup bacon bits
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Toothpicks
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture and wrap each with a slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick.
5. Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. While the poppers are baking, prepare the baconnaise by combining the mayonnaise and bacon bits in a small bowl.
7. Serve the bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers hot with the baconnaise on the side.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 400°F (200°C)
Serving size:
- 12 poppers
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 240
- Fat: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Protein: 9g
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 diced jalapenos or green onions to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- Use different types of cheese or a combination of cheeses.
- Top the poppers with breadcrumbs or panko for added crunch.
Tips and tricks:
- Wear gloves when handling the jalapeno peppers to avoid irritation to your skin.
- Soak the toothpicks in water for 10-15 minutes before using to prevent them from burning in the oven.
- If the bacon is not crispy enough, broil the poppers for 1-2 minutes at the end of the cooking time.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the poppers, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the poppers on a platter with the baconnaise in a small bowl on the side.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as 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 cheese mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to thin it out.
- If the bacon is not wrapping around the jalapeno properly, try partially cooking the bacon in the microwave for a few seconds to make it more pliable.
Food safety advice:
- Wash your hands and all utensils thoroughly before and after handling the jalapeno peppers.
- Make sure the bacon is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Jalapeno poppers originated in Texas in the 1980s and have since become a popular appetizer in the United States.
Flavor profiles:
- Spicy, creamy, salty, smoky
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or snack at a party or barbecue.
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