Halloween Stuffed Jalapeños Bacon Cheese (Print Version)

Festive jalapeños with creamy cheese, bacon, and spice, baked for Halloween gatherings. Bold, irresistible appetizer.

# What You'll Need:

→ Peppers

01 - 16 large fresh jalapeño peppers

→ Filling

02 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
03 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
04 - 4 slices bacon, cooked and finely chopped
05 - 2 green onions, finely sliced
06 - 1 clove garlic, minced
07 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Decoration

10 - 2 tablespoons olive oil, for brushing

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Remove stems from jalapeños and slice a thin vertical slit down one side. Carefully scoop out seeds and membranes with a small spoon.
03 - Using a paring knife, carve faces into one side of each jalapeño.
04 - In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, green onions, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and evenly combined.
05 - Fill each jalapeño with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag, pressing gently to fill completely.
06 - Lightly brush the exterior of each stuffed jalapeño with olive oil.
07 - Position jalapeños face side up on the prepared baking sheet.
08 - Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, until peppers are tender and filling is bubbling.
09 - Allow jalapeños to cool slightly before serving.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Uses easy-to-find ingredients you may already have in your fridge
  • Takes less than forty minutes from start to finish
  • Naturally gluten-free if you choose the right bacon and cheese
  • Can be made ahead and baked right before guests arrive
  • Looks impressive but is simple to put together even for beginners
02 -
  • High in protein from cheese and bacon
  • Very kid-friendly with adjustable spice levels just swap jalapeños for sweet peppers
  • These peppers look festive but taste comforting for adults too
  • You can easily make these ahead completely and reheat just before guests arrive
03 -
  • Use gloves when handling jalapeños especially when carving. The oils can irritate your skin and linger long after washing
  • Pipe filling into peppers using a plastic bag with the corner snipped for clean results and less mess
  • Keep the carved faces simple—triangles and ovals are easiest and less likely to tear during baking
  • Brush the carved area with olive oil before baking to help faces stay crisp and clear