Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

I made these for the Super Bowl party this weekend.  While the outcome of the game was not what we wanted, these were a hit.  And as long as you remove the seeds/membranes from the jalapenos, they're not spicy.  They're so good!  (They were called Bacon-Wrapped Cheesy Stuffed Jalapenos but I decided to simplify the name a little. I hate long names for recipes.)  : )

Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

If you like spicy, you will love these! Halved jalapeños stuffed with cream cheese, shredded cheese, paprika, and garlic and wrapped up with crispy bacon. Absolutely incredible!
Yield: 24 stuffed jalapeño halves

total time: 45 MINUTES

Ingredients:

• 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese*
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 12 slices bacon, cut in half
• 24 toothpicks

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400F degrees. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper (best for clean-up) or a silicone baking mat. Place a baking rack on top of the baking sheet. Set aside.

Cut the jalapeño peppers in half lengthwise; remove seeds and center membrane. Set aside.

Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic, and paprika together until combined. You could also do this by hand using a rubber spatula. Salt to taste - I add just a pinch. Spoon filling equally among all 24 jalapeño halves.

Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a half slice of bacon and stick a toothpick through the center to assure the bacon stays in place. Place each on the baking rack and bake for 25-28 minutes or until the bacon is crisp to your liking. I like to turn the oven to broil for the last minute or two to get things extra crispy.  Serve immediately. Cover leftovers and keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

MAKE AHEAD/FREEZE: jalapeño peppers may be stuffed and wrapped 1 day in advance. Refrigerate until ready to bake. You may also assemble and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

*Mexican style or pepper jack shredded cheese is also tasty.

Recipe from http://sallysbakingaddiction.com/2014/09/25/bacon-wrapped-cheesy-stuffed-jalapenos/