Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Smoked Jalapeno Poppers Recipe: A Spicy Delight for Your Next BBQ

Summer is the perfect season for firing up the grill and enjoying delicious, smoky treats. If you’re looking to impress your friends and family at your next barbecue, look no further than smoked jalapeno poppers. These spicy, cheesy bites are a crowd-pleaser, combining the perfect amount of heat with creamy, savory filling, all wrapped up in a smoky, crispy package. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients :

• 12 large jalapeno peppers
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
• Toothpicks
• Wood chips for smoking (apple wood or hickory work well)

• Preparation Time
  30 minutes
• Cooking Time
  2.5 minutes
• Serves
  4 adults
• Difficulty
  Easy

Instructions :

1. Prepare the Jalapenos

• Start by washing the jalapenos thoroughly. Cut each pepper in half lengthwise and use a small spoon to scoop out the seeds and membranes. If you prefer a milder popper, be sure to remove all the seeds and membranes, as this is where most of the heat is concentrated.

2. Make the Filling

• In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and smooth.

3. Stuff the Jalapenos

• Using a small spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture. Be generous with the filling, but make sure it doesn’t overflow too much.

4. Wrap with Bacon

• Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeno half. Secure the bacon with a toothpick to ensure it stays in place during cooking.

5. Preheat Your Smoker.

• Set your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add your choice of wood chips to the smoker box. Applewood or hickory are great options for a delicious smoky flavor that complements the jalapenos and bacon perfectly.

6. Smoke the Poppers

• Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers on the smoker rack, making sure they are not touching each other. Smoke the poppers for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the poppers from the smoker and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These smoked jalapeno poppers are best enjoyed warm, straight off the grill.

Tips for Perfect Poppers

• Adjusting the Heat: If you love extra heat, leave some of the seeds and membranes in the jalapenos. For a milder version, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Pepper jack, Monterey jack, or even blue cheese can add a unique twist to your poppers.
• Bacon Choice: Thick-cut bacon can be used, but it may require a longer smoking time to get crispy. Regular bacon works best for an even cook.

Nutritional Information per Smoked Jalapeno Popper

• Calories: 85 kcal
• Total Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg
• Sodium: 190 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Sugars: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Vitamin A: 6% DV
• Vitamin C: 8% DV
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Iron: 2% DV

Conclusion

Smoked jalapeno poppers are a fantastic addition to any barbecue menu. They’re easy to prepare, full of flavor, and always a hit with guests. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just want a tasty snack, these poppers are sure to satisfy. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering, and watch them disappear in no time!

FAQs about Smoked Jalapeno Popper

1. What are smoked jalapeno poppers? Smoked jalapeno poppers are spicy appetizers made by stuffing jalapeno peppers with a creamy cheese mixture, wrapping them in bacon, and smoking them until the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender.

2. How spicy are smoked jalapeno poppers? The spiciness can vary depending on how much of the jalapeno’s seeds and membranes are left intact. Removing these parts reduces the heat significantly, making them milder.

3. How do you make smoked jalapeno poppers? To make smoked jalapeno poppers, you hollow out jalapeno peppers, fill them with a mixture of cream cheese and shredded cheese, wrap them in bacon, and smoke them until cooked through.

4. What kind of cheese is used in smoked jalapeno poppers? Cream cheese is commonly used for its creamy texture, and shredded cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella add flavor and melt well when smoked.

5. How long do you smoke jalapeno poppers? Jalapeno poppers are typically smoked at around 225°F (107°C) for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender.

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