What’s great is how easy they are to prepare ahead of time. You can assemble the poppers, freeze them, and fry or bake them straight from the freezer. This makes them a perfect appetizer to keep on hand for surprise guests or late-night cravings. They look amazing on a platter too—golden, crispy, and studded with smoky bacon. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them at home, Cowboy Cream Cheese Jalapeño Poppers deliver a bold, satisfying flavor punch in every bite.
Cowboy Cream Cheese Jalapeño Poppers Recipe
Ingredients
• 10–12 fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup flour
• Oil for frying (if frying)
Instructions
- Cut jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheese, bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
- Dredge each popper: coat in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumbs.
- For frying: heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry 2–3 minutes until golden.
- For baking: place on a sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes until golden.
- Serve hot with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce.