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Crispy BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers with Easy Homemade Ranch Dip

BBQ bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy BBQ bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers feature a creamy, cheesy filling with a smoky, spicy kick, perfectly balanced by a cool homemade ranch dip. Quick and easy to make, they are a crowd-pleasing snack ideal for gatherings or casual hangouts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium-sized fresh jalapeños
  • 12 slices bacon (thin or regular cut)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 3 tablespoons BBQ sauce
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Ranch dip for serving (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes to control heat. Pat dry with paper towels.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and well blended.
  4. Use a spoon or melon baller to scoop the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, leaving a little room at the top for the bacon wrap.
  5. Cut bacon slices in half if large. Wrap one half-slice around each filled jalapeño, overlapping slightly to secure. Place seam side down on the baking sheet.
  6. Lightly brush the bacon with BBQ sauce.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly. Optionally, flip poppers halfway through baking for even crispiness.
  8. Let the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving with a generous side of ranch dip.

Notes

For less heat, remove all seeds and membranes from jalapeños. Use softened cream cheese for easier mixing and filling. Brush BBQ sauce lightly to avoid soggy bacon. Flip poppers halfway through baking for even crispiness. Broil 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness but watch closely to avoid burning. Reheat leftovers in oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to keep bacon crispy; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, bacon-wrapped, BBQ, appetizer, snack, party food, ranch dip, spicy, cheesy