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Cowboy Jalapeño Poppers

Cozy, smoky bites filled with cream cheese, cheddar, and bacon, perfect for parties or cozy weeknight snacks.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12 poppers
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 160
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 6 large jalapeños, halved and seeded Fresh jalapeños give best crunch.
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Soften cream cheese to blend smoothly.
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 lb ground sausage, cooked Use cooked sausage for less grease.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika Smoked paprika adds warm depth.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled Bacon adds a salty crunch.
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions Optional garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds and membranes carefully.
  3. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, cooked sausage, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper until creamy and well combined.
  4. Spoon the mixture evenly into each jalapeño half, pressing gently so the filling sits snug.
  5. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the tops of the filled jalapeños.
Baking
  1. Arrange the poppers on the prepared sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, watching for bubbling cheese and slightly browned edges.
  2. Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm.

Notes

These poppers are forgiving – relax and you’ll get great results. You can make them ahead by assembling and refrigerating them 24 hours before baking. Cook the sausage the night before to save time.