Roasted Garlic stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers – 6 Simple Steps

Smoked Jalapeno Poppers combines crispy bacon, roasted garlic cheese blend, and spicy jalapenos to create a mix of savory, smoky, and spicy flavors in every bite.

Enjoy these delicious Smoked Jalapeno Poppers as a tasty appetizer or snack! Adjust the spice level by keeping or removing jalapeno seeds and membranes based on your preference.

Ingredients for Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Spicy jalapenos, cream cheese, roasted garlic, and crispy bacon create a mix of heat, richness, and savory flavors in this delectable Smoked Jalapeno Poppers Recipe! These are always a crowd-pleaser.

• Jalapeno Peppers: Provide the foundational heat and flavor, creating the signature spiciness of the poppers.
• Roasted Garlic and BBQ Seasoning: Introduce a smoky and savory dimension, enhancing the overall depth and richness of the cream cheese filling.
• Cream and Cheddar Cheeses: Act as the creamy base, providing a luscious, texture that binds the other ingredients together.
• Bacon: Offers a crispy and salty exterior that complements the creamy and spicy interior, creating a delightful texture contrast. The bacon also infuses a smoky flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile of the dish.

How to Make Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Begin making the Smoked Jalapeno Poppers by stuffing jalapenos with the creamy cheese mix, wrapping them in bacon, and letting them sizzle in the smoker – it’s just 6 simple steps that deliver big on flavor!

1. Preheat Smoker: Set the smoker to 225-250°F (107-121°C).
2. Prepare Jalapenos: Cut in half, remove seeds for milder spice.
3. Make Cheese Filling: Mix cream cheese, cheddar, garlic, and BBQ seasoning.
4. Fill Jalapenos: Spoon cheese mix evenly into jalapeno halves.
5. Wrap with Bacon: Secure each with a strip of bacon with a toothpick.
6. Smoke Poppers: Place on smoker grate, and smoke for 2-3 hours until bacon is crispy.
7. Serve: Cool briefly before enjoying your delicious smoked jalapeno poppers!

Why this Recipe Works

1. Balance of Flavors: The spicy jalapenos, creamy cheese, and salty bacon create the perfect flavor.
2. Texture Variety: The creamy filling and crispy bacon provide a delightful contrast in every bite.
3. Easy Preparation: Simple steps make it accessible for cooks of all levels, ensuring tasty results without complexity.

Recipe Tips and Kitchen Tricks

1. Seed Control: Adjust spice level by removing or keeping jalapeno seeds.
2. Bacon Wrapping: Secure bacon with toothpicks for even cooking and easy serving.
3. Pre-Soak Toothpicks: Prevent burning by soaking toothpicks in water before use.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Variation: Experiment with different cheese blends or add jalapeno jelly for a sweet kick.
• Meat Lover’s Twist: Include cooked sausage or ground meat in the cream cheese filling.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute bacon with grilled portobello mushrooms for a smoky, meat-free alternative.

Serving Suggestions

1. Game Day Snack: Perfect for sharing during sports events.
2. Party Platter: Arrange on a plate for a flavorful party appetizer.
3. BBQ Side Dish: Complement your barbecue feast with these poppers.
4. Movie Night Treat: A tasty, bite-sized snack for movie marathons.
5. Picnic Delight: Pack in a picnic basket for a flavorful outdoor meal.

Storing, freezing, and reheating instructions

• Storing: Keep leftover poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Place them in a single layer on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 mins or until heated through. Avoid microwaving for crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Wine & Cocktail Pairings

Remember, personal preferences play a role, so feel free to explore and discover your favorite pairings!

Wine Pairings:

1. Chardonnay: Its buttery notes complement the creamy cheese filling.
2. Sauvignon Blanc: The crisp acidity cuts through the richness of bacon and cheese.
3. Zinfandel: Its bold flavor stands up well to the spiciness of jalapenos.

Cocktail Pairings:

1. Margarita: The citrusy and salty flavors enhance the poppers’ taste.
2. Bloody Mary: A savory choice with a kick, pairing well with the bacon.
3. Moscow Mule: The ginger kick complements the spicy jalapenos.

Beer Pairings:

1. IPA (India Pale Ale): The hoppy bitterness balances the richness of the dish.
2. Wheat Beer: Its light and crisp profile complements the smoky flavors.
3. Amber Ale: A malty beer that pairs well with bacon and cheese.