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Beef Bacon Jalapeño Twists

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4.1 from 41 reviews

Beef Bacon Jalapeño Twists are a mouthwatering appetizer featuring fresh jalapeños filled with a creamy, spiced cheddar and cream cheese mixture, wrapped in smoky beef bacon, then baked to crispy, golden perfection. This recipe delivers an irresistible combination of heat, smoky flavor, and creamy texture, ideal for parties or casual snacking.

Ingredients

Scale

Jalapeños and Bacon

  • 12 medium to large fresh jalapeños
  • 12–16 slices of high-quality beef bacon
  • 24–30 wooden toothpicks

Cheese Filling

  • 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (about 4 oz/113g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon fresh black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prep and Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Wash, dry, and halve the jalapeños lengthwise, then carefully scoop out all seeds and membranes to reduce heat while wearing disposable gloves.
  2. Make the Cheese Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth. Gently fold in shredded sharp cheddar cheese and adjust seasoning if needed.
  3. Assemble Jalapeño Twists: Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture. Take one slice of beef bacon and wrap it tightly around the filled jalapeño, spiraling from the stem to pointy end with a slight twist to secure it. Use 1-2 wooden toothpicks per piece to hold the bacon in place. Repeat for all halves.
  4. Bake: Place the wrapped jalapeño twists on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, then rotate the baking sheet 180 degrees and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until the bacon is crispy and golden and the jalapeños are tender-crisp. Monitor closely near the end to avoid burning.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let rest on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes to allow filling to set. Carefully remove all toothpicks before serving. Arrange on a platter and garnish with chopped chives or cilantro if desired. Serve warm with ranch dressing, sour cream, or spicy sriracha mayo for dipping.

Notes

  • Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation from the capsaicin.
  • Removing the seeds and membranes reduces heat but keeps flavor; adjust accordingly if you prefer spicier bites.
  • Use high-quality beef bacon for best smoky flavor and crispiness.
  • Allow twists to rest after baking for filling to firm up, which helps prevent burns when eating.
  • Always remove toothpicks before serving to avoid injury.
  • Optional garnishes like fresh chives or cilantro add a fresh herbal note.

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/beef-bacon-jalapeno-twists/