Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers (Easy Appetizer!)

If you're looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that disappears fast, these bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers are always a win. Crispy bacon, creamy filling, and just the right amount of heat make this classic appetizer perfect for game day, holidays, backyard parties, or anytime you need an easy finger food!

Gluten-Free Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

This easy bacon wrapped jalapeno popper recipe is just like the classic breaded jalapeno poppers made in a restaurant, except this recipe skips the breading and is wrapped in bacon making it naturally gluten-free. They are also baked in an oven instead of being deep fried.

These poppers are perfect for Super Bowl party food, football Sundays, and any game day gathering where easy finger foods are a must!

If you're worried about the heat, don't be! Once the jalapeno seeds and ribs are removed, they really aren't spicy at all. Even our picky kiddos can handle them with no problem!

These poppers are:

• Easy to prep ahead of time
• Great for feeding a crowd
• Naturally gluten free
• Perfect for holidays, game day, and potlucks

Ingredients you'll need to make these stuffed jalapeno poppers

• Fresh Jalapenos. About 3 inches long is the perfect size so that they're not too small to stuff and not too big. Make sure they are all about the same size in order to cook evenly.
• Cream Cheese. Go ahead and use your favorite dairy-free cream cheese spread if needed.
• Spices. I used a mixture of ground cumin and chili powder to pack these poppers full of Mexican-inspired flavor.
• Bacon. Use traditional sliced, not thick sliced bacon. Cut each slice of bacon in half to make it the perfect size for wrapping. You can secure with a toothpick if needed.

Ingredient Notes & Variations

Most jalapeño popper recipes start with a cream cheese filling, and for good reason because it cools the heat and adds richness.

For less heat, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. For more spice, leave a few behind.

Looking for more game day appetizers? I think you'll also love these Loaded Baked Potato Skins and this 3 Ingredient Warm Sausage Dip.

How to Make this Jalapeno Popper Recipe

1. Start by slicing the jalapenos in half, then remove the ribs and seeds. This removes most of the heat from the jalapenos, so if you like things more on the spicy side, leave some of the seeds in there. My pro-tip is to wear gloves while prepping the peppers to avoid burning your hands or fingers! I learned from experience!!
2. The peppers are then stuffed with a cream cheese mixture that is seasoned with mexican spices of cumin and chili powder.
3. The last step before baking, is the best part- BACON! Each stuffed jalapeno gets wrapped up in a half slice of bacon. Place the jalapenos on a baking sheet with a wire rack so that the bacon grease is able to drip.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

These bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers can be assembled up to one day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for best texture.

Leftovers (if you have any) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer.

Tips for Perfect Jalapeño Poppers

• Use thin-cut bacon so it crisps fully in the oven.
• Place poppers on a wire rack over a baking sheet for extra crispiness.
• For easier filling, transfer the cream cheese mixture to a piping bag or zip-top bag.

Serving Ideas

Serve these poppers with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy twist. They go perfectly with other party favorites like wings, sliders, or a veggie tray.

Have you tried this recipe? Be sure to leave a comment below and tag me on instagram @thrivingglutenfree so I can see how it turned out!

Let's Eat!