Picture this: jalapeños and bacon come together for a mouth-watering snack. We’re talking about Bacon Wrapped BBQ Jalapeno Poppers. They are not just a delight for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes. So, what makes these grilled poppers stand out?
Get ready for a quick, twenty-minute journey to make the perfect party food. Each serving packs about 391 calories, loaded with flavors and essential nutrients. Let’s explore how to make these Bacon Wrapped BBQ Poppers step by step!
Introduction to Bacon Wrapped BBQ Jalapeno Poppers
At a fun party, the smell of smoked poppers fills the air. Everyone enjoys them as a top easy party finger food. Bacon Wrapped BBQ Poppers are loved by many, especially during 4th of July festivities. Their blend of bold flavors and textures makes every bite unforgettable.
Picture fresh jalapeños filled with creamy cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon. Once they hit the grill, they become extraordinary smoked poppers. They have a perfect char and a rich taste that stands out.
When paired with Cowboy Hickory Smoke BBQ Sauce, these poppers are irresistible. Add Garlic Parmesan Wings or Pulled Beef Sliders for an amazing party spread. These poppers are sure to impress everyone. They offer a delicious experience with every bite.
🥫 Ingredients
- 6 large jalapenos
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 5 ounces cooked pork chorizo
- Bacon slices
📋 Instructions
- Preheat the grill to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cut jalapenos in half, remove seeds and ribs.
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with cooked chorizo.
- Fill jalapeno halves with the cream cheese mixture.
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeno half with a slice of bacon.
- Secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Sprinkle with BBQ rub if desired.
- Grill the poppers for about 45-50 minutes, rotating halfway through, until bacon is cooked to your liking.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
The Ultimate Guide to Preparing Your Grill for Jalapeno Poppers
Want to make perfect grilled poppers? It all starts with a ready grill. Having your grill set up right is key to making your spicy snack a hit at your easy party finger food party. Here are the steps to prep your grill for those tasty treats.
Prepping the Chimney for Optimal Grill Heating
Start by lighting Cowboy Hardwood Lump Charcoal in a chimney starter. Let it burn for 10 to 15 minutes. You want the coals red-hot and lightly ashed. This makes sure you get the even, hot fire needed for perfect grilled poppers.
Want more smoke flavor in your jalapeno popper recipe? Then, toss in Cowboy Hickory Wood Chunks on the charcoal. Do this about 5 minutes before you grill.
Oiling the Grate to Prevent Sticking
While the charcoal’s getting ready, prep your grill grate. You don’t want your poppers sticking or breaking. Just rub the grate with a paper towel soaked in a high-smoke-point oil. This easy step keeps your grilled poppers looking good.
Prepping your grill like this improves your grilled poppers. It also makes sure other easy party finger food tastes great for your friends.
Bacon Wrapped BBQ Jalapeno Poppers: Ingredient Breakdown
The secret to mouthwatering BBQ Poppers is in the ingredients. Every part adds to a mix of heat, creaminess, and smoke. This creates an appetizer that delights with each bite.
Fresh Jalapenos: Choosing the Right Peppers for Your Poppers
Choosing the best jalapenos is key. Look for bright, firm, and glossy green peppers. The perfect peppers are medium-sized. They are the right size for bite-sized poppers filled with savory goodness.
Cream Cheese and Cheddar: A Perfect Cheesy Combo
The poppers’ filling must be both rich and tasty. That’s why cream cheese is essential. It mixes well with sharp cheddar or, for those who prefer, milder Monterey Jack. This cheesy combination is ready to embrace other flavors when grilled.
Smoked Bacon Selection for the Ultimate Wrap
Different bacon varieties add unique flavors and textures. You can choose smoked, thick-cut, or peppered bacon. The bacon wraps around the cheesy filling, adding a smoky flavor. It finishes with a crunch that contrasts the creamy inside.
A final brush of Cowboy Hickory Smoke BBQ Sauce makes them unforgettable. This adds a sweet-smokiness to each popper. Get these ingredients right, and your poppers will be a hit, known for their great taste and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
Enjoy the spicy, smoky taste of smoked poppers with our easy jalapeno popper recipe. They’re more than just snacks; they’re great for any party. Learn to make these tasty treats that guests will love.
Halving and Seeding Jalapenos: A Safety Tip
Pick firm, nice jalapenos to start. Cut them in half lengthwise and be sure to make even slices. Wear gloves when removing seeds to avoid skin burns from capsaicin. This step creates the perfect spot for filling and keeps the heat mild.
Wrapping Techniques: Securing Bacon with Toothpicks
To bind a popper, a bacon wrap works best. Fill each jalapeno half with a mix of cream cheese and shredded cheese. Then, wrap it tight with bacon. Use toothpicks to keep it together. This keeps it tasty and intact when grilling.
Grilling to Perfection: Achieving Crispy Bacon and Melty Cheese
Now, grill your poppers to get crispy bacon and gooey cheese. Grill them for about seven minutes on each side. Aim for crisp bacon and soft, melted cheese inside. This texture contrast makes our jalapeno popper recipe a top choice.
Follow these steps to make impressive smoked poppers. This jalapeno popper recipe is sure to be a hit, whether you’re new to cooking or a grill expert. Now, light up your grill and get ready for the compliments on these delicious snacks.
Bacon Wrapped BBQ Jalapeno Poppers: Grilling Tips and Tricks
Mastering BBQ poppers involves some key tips and tricks. To get these easy party finger food delights just right, you need to be watchful and in control. Learning the essential grilling techniques ensures every popper is deliciously grilled.
Monitoring for Flare-Ups: Keeping an Eye on Your Poppers
Bacon wrapped BBQ poppers can cause flare-ups while grilling. The bacon’s fat can catch fire, so be ready to move them to a cooler spot if needed. Keeping an eye on them helps avoid burning and keeps them golden and tasty.
2-Zone Fire Setup: Managing Cooking Temperature
Use a two-zone fire when grilling. Set up your grill with one hot and one cool area. Start on the hot side for crispy bacon, then move to the cool side. This helps melt the insides without burning the bacon.
Dipping Sauces and Toppings: Enhancing Flavors
Elevate your poppers with different sauces and toppings. Try them with ranch, barbecue sauce, or cilantro-lime crema. Add chopped chives or green onions before serving to make them stand out. This makes the easy party finger food even more delicious.
Storing and Making Jalapeno Poppers Ahead of Time
For hosts who like to be prepared, making them ahead is a great idea. They are easy to prepare and super convenient to have ready. First, wrap each jalapeno piece in bacon, and place them on a tray for freezing. Once they’re frozen, put them into an airtight container or ziplock bag to store. This will keep them tasting fresh and firm until the big day arrives.
On the event day, just move them from freezer to grill or oven. They don’t need extra prep work. This makes things fast and keeps the appetizers delicious and crispy. If there are any leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. However, remember they are best enjoyed fresh with their crispy bacon and creamy cheese filling.
These poppers are perfect for any event, big or small. Making and storing them ahead saves time, avoiding any kitchen rush. This dish will make you the star chef among your friends and family.
