Jalapeno Poppers with Smoked Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Smoked Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 4 oz smoked cheese, shredded; 12 slices of bacon, cut in half; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika

Highlighted under: Authentic Recipes

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Smoked Cheese for gatherings and game days! The combination of the spicy jalapenos and creamy, smoky cheese creates a flavor explosion that everyone craves. Plus, the preparation is incredibly simple and can be done in just a few steps. I usually make a large batch because they disappear fast, and I love seeing friends' faces light up when they take that first bite. Trust me, these poppers are bound to become a favorite at your next event!

Created by

Quincy Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:34:36.960Z

I remember the first time I made these poppers; it was a spontaneous decision to surprise my friends at a barbecue. I mixed cream cheese with smoked cheese and filled each halved jalapeno, then wrapped them in bacon. The results were amazing! I learned that the extra smokiness complements the heat of the jalapenos beautifully.

This recipe not only elevates your usual appetizer game, but it's also a perfect introduction to grilling. By grilling instead of baking, I found that the smoky flavor deepens, making every bite mouthwateringly delicious. Don't skip the grill if you can help it!

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        A delicious blend of smokiness and heat
Crispy bacon adds irresistible texture
Perfect as party snacks or game-day appetizers

      

Preparing the Jalapenos

When preparing your jalapenos, it's crucial to wear gloves as these peppers can leave a lingering heat on your skin. Carefully slice each pepper in half lengthwise and take your time removing the seeds and membranes using a small spoon or knife. This step not only reduces the spiciness but also ensures your poppers have a nice, creamy filling without competing heat levels. Aim for a clean hollow that showcases the filling beautifully.

If you prefer a bit more heat, you can leave some seeds intact in a few of the poppers, as this adds an extra kick. However, balance is key to cater to varying spice tolerances among your guests. Once your jalapenos are prepped, they’ll be ready to hold that luscious filling and give a satisfying crunch when grilled.

Creating the Perfect Filling

The filling for your jalapeno poppers is truly the star of the show. Using a combination of softened cream cheese and shredded smoked cheese offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The cream cheese contributes to a smooth, creamy base, while the smoked cheese adds depth and a rich, complex smokiness that elevates the dish. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing, resulting in a creamy, homogenous filling that’s easy to spoon into the pepper halves.

Feel free to experiment with the spices in your filling. If you love a more intense flavor, consider adding a touch of cayenne pepper or even some chopped green onions or herbs like cilantro. Remember, the filling's cohesiveness is essential to keep it from spilling out during grilling, so blend the ingredients until they’re well combined and glossy before spooning them into the peppers.

Grilling Techniques for Success

Grilling your jalapeno poppers requires consistent medium heat to achieve that perfect crispy bacon exterior while ensuring the cheese melts beautifully inside. Preheat your grill to a consistent temperature, ideally around 350°F to 400°F. If your grill has hot spots, arrange the poppers in a way that they can cook evenly without burning, perhaps by using a grill basket or placing them on a piece of aluminum foil.

Keep an eye on your poppers as they cook—around 15 to 20 minutes should do the trick. You’ll know they’re ready when the bacon has turned a golden brown and the cheese inside is bubbling. If the bacon isn’t crisping up as desired, you can move the poppers closer to the heat source for a few additional minutes. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become soggy if left too long on the grill.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to get started!

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 oz smoked cheese, shredded
12 slices of bacon, cut in half
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika

Make sure to preheat your grill while preparing the ingredients.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create mouthwatering jalapeno poppers!

Prepare the Jalapenos

Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. This will help control the heat level.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, smoked cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika until well combined.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling them generously.

Wrap with Bacon

Wrap each filled jalapeno half with a slice of halved bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.

Grill the Poppers

Preheat the grill to medium heat and place the poppers on the grill grates. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve hot and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, leave some seeds in the jalapenos. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten up your jalapeno poppers, consider using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. While it may not crisp up quite as much, it will still lend a delicious flavor and texture. Additionally, for a vegetarian-friendly version, you can substitute the bacon with thin slices of zucchini or eggplant, wrapping them around the filled jalapenos for a unique twist.

For those with dairy sensitivities, creamy vegan cheese can replace both the cream and smoked cheese. Just ensure you choose a high-quality brand that melts well to mimic the creaminess and flavor of the original ingredients.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare your jalapeno poppers in advance, which is perfect for busy days leading up to an event. After filling and wrapping the jalapenos, store them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover them with plastic wrap. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This not only saves time but allows flavors to meld beautifully.

If you have leftovers, jalapeno poppers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes will help restore that crispness of the bacon and warmth of the cheese. Avoid the microwave, as this can make them soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your jalapeno poppers with a cool dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing, to balance out the heat. A squeeze of fresh lime juice over the top can also add a refreshing twist that cuts through the richness.

For an upscale twist, serve these poppers on a beautiful platter alongside some grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. This not only enhances the presentation but also offers a great way to sate those who may prefer lighter fare while still enjoying the poppers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapenos and the filling a day in advance, then wrap them in bacon and grill them right before serving.

→ Can I bake the poppers instead of grilling them?

Absolutely! Place the wrapped poppers on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes.

→ What can I serve with these poppers?

They pair perfectly with a zesty dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese, and go well with cold beverages.

→ Are these poppers spicy?

Yes, but the heat can be controlled by removing the seeds and membranes of the jalapenos. For milder poppers, choose larger jalapenos.