How to Bake Cheddar & Cream Cheese Stuffed Jalapeños Wrapped in Bacon

If you want to bake a crowd pleaser that friends and family will ask for over and over again; this is it. I've baked these jalapeño delights for all sorts of events and I can NEVER make enough!

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 15-20 Jalapeños (medium size)
• 1 8oz. package of cream cheese.
• 1 16 oz. package of shredded mild cheddar cheese.
• 1 lb. of bacon, cut in half.
• toothpicks (optional)

1. Allow the cheeses to reach room temperature. Using a fork, lightly mash the cheeses together in a medium sized bowl. Place a kitchen towel over the bowl and set aside while the jalapeños are being prepared to stuff.

2. Next, slice the jalapeños in half, lengthwise, and completely remove all seeds and membranes.

3. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut bacon strips in half and set aside.

4. Wash and rinse sliced jalapeños in cold water. Towel dry and begin stuffing each jalapeño with the cheese mixture using a level spoon. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.

5. Place stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet or broiler pan and bake for 20 minutes or until cheese is golden.

Tips & Warnings

• I always remove the stems of the jalapeños and use the toothpicks for easy serving, but the stems can be used to serve as well. Also use medium sized jalapeños for a great presentation because the bacon halves will fit around them perfectly.
• It's highly recommended to use gloves when handling jalapeños. If gloves are not used, thoroughly wash hands in soapy water and avoid touching facial area. The juices from the jalapeños can cause unpleasant irritation in the areas of the eyes, nose, mouth, ears, and hands.