Appetizers and Dips
Easy Cheese and Bacon Jalapeño Rellenos Recipe
These Cheese Bacon Jalapeño Rellenos are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, combining the heat of fresh peppers with a creamy, smoky filling. Roasted until the cheese is bubbling and the peppers are tender, they offer a professional-grade snack that is incredibly easy to prepare for weeknight entertaining.
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 20 min
- Serves
- 4
- Level
- Easy
- Per serving
- 340 kcal
Method
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scrape out the seeds and the white membranes to control the heat level.
In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until thoroughly combined.
Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese and bacon mixture, using the back of a spoon to level it off.
Place the stuffed peppers on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the peppers have softened and the cheese topping is melted and starting to brown in spots.
Remove from the oven and let them sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Notes
Wear disposable gloves while handling the jalapeños to avoid skin irritation from the capsaicin.
For extra crunch, you can top the peppers with a dusting of panko breadcrumbs before putting them in the oven.
Make these ahead of time by stuffing the peppers up to 24 hours in advance and storing them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
If you prefer a milder flavor, ensure every bit of the internal white ribs is removed, as that is where most of the heat resides.
