Smithfield Mike's Hot Honey Bacon Jalapeño Poppers Recipe
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Difficulty
Easy
Ingredients
- 12 large jalapeños, halved lengthwise, seeds and membranes removed
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons Mike's Hot Honey
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- A pinch cayenne powder (optional)
- 12 slices Mike's Hot Honey-Smithfield bacon, halved crosswise
- Toothpicks
Instructions
Prep Work (15 minutes)
- Get Started: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- Mix the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, add cream cheese, cheddar, honey, paprika, garlic powder, salt and cayenne. Mix with spatula until well combined.
Assemble (15 minutes)
- Fill the Peppers: Fill each jalapeño half with cream cheese mixture.
- Wrap It Up: Wrap each pepper with a slice of bacon. Skewer wrapped peppers with a toothpick to hold bacon in place.
- Line 'Em Up: Arrange peppers on baking sheet.
Bake (20-25 minutes)
- Into the Oven: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bacon is crispy.
- Serve It Up: Once peppers are cooked, remove from oven. Transfer to a large plate and serve with a drizzle of Mike's Hot Honey.
Pro Tips!
- Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid burning your hands
- Room temperature cream cheese mixes much easier
- For extra crispy bacon, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes
- Make these ahead and refrigerate - just pop them in the oven when guests arrive
Perfect Pairings
Make It a Spread:
- Serve alongside Mike's Hot Honey Bloody Mary
- Pair with ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce
- Add to your game day lineup with wings and sliders
Spice It Up or Down:
- For milder poppers, use mini sweet peppers instead
- Add cooked chorizo to the filling for extra flavor
- Mix in some green onions or chives to the cheese mixture
