Jared'S Grilled Jalapenos
Juicy jalapenos stuffed with creamy cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, and grilled to perfection—perfect for parties and those who love spicy, smoky flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Split the jalapenos in halves lengthwise and scrape out the seeds.
- Fill each jalapeno half with cream cheese (or mozzarella as an alternative).
- Wrap each filled jalapeno with a bacon strip.
- Grill on open flame until the bacon is cooked and crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, leave some seeds in the jalapenos. If you prefer a different flavor, consider using mozzarella instead of cream cheese. To hold the bacon in place while grilling, secure it with toothpicks. Cooking on indirect heat can help render the bacon fat without burning it. This recipe pairs beautifully with Sausage-Stuffed Mushroom appetizers for a delightful spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these grilled jalapenos as a spicy appetizer at your next gathering, or as a side dish with grilled meats. They pair well with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside Pork recipes like smoked ribs or grilled chicken, enhancing your barbecue experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the bacon is crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jared'S Grilled Jalapenos contains roughly 10 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these jalapeno poppers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the jalapeno halves and fill them with cream cheese ahead of time. Just wrap them in bacon right before grilling. Alternatively, you can fully assemble them and refrigerate, then grill them when ready. This makes for a convenient option for parties.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you're looking for a bacon alternative, consider using prosciutto or turkey bacon for a lighter version. You can also try wrapping the jalapenos in slices of salami for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, skip the meat entirely and focus on the creamy filling with some spices.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To control the heat, choose milder jalapenos or remove all the seeds and membranes, which contain most of the capsaicin. For a bolder flavor, you could also use serrano peppers instead of jalapenos, or add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the cream cheese filling for extra zing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).