Name: Cowboy Jalapeño Poppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 medium jalapeños; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Ready to turn up the flavor at your next gathering? These Cowboy Jalapeño Poppers are your ticket to a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed appetizer that brings the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and savory crunch. Think smoky bacon, tangy cream cheese, and sharp cheddar all nestled inside a fresh jalapeño shell—then baked to bubbly, golden perfection.

Perfect for game day, backyard BBQs, or even a no-fuss weeknight treat, these poppers are the kind of snack that disappears fast. They’re bold, cheesy, and irresistibly addictive—everything a true cowboy (or cowgirl) snack should be.

Why You’ll Love These Cowboy Jalapeño Poppers

These poppers aren’t your average appetizer. The cream cheese blend gets a punch of flavor from ranch seasoning, while crispy bacon adds irresistible crunch and smoky depth. They’re baked (not fried!), making them an easier and less greasy option that still delivers major taste. Plus, they’re naturally low-carb and gluten-free, which makes them perfect for feeding a crowd with dietary needs.

What Kind of Jalapeños Should I Use?

For this recipe, aim for medium to large jalapeños that have a consistent shape for even filling. Fresh, firm peppers are best—avoid wrinkled or overly soft ones. If you want a milder popper, remove all seeds and membranes before stuffing. Prefer extra kick? Leave some of those spicy bits in!

Ingredients for the Cowboy Jalapeño Poppers

Each ingredient plays a role in delivering bold, crave-worthy flavor:

Jalapeños: The base for the poppers. Their natural shape is perfect for stuffing and baking, and you control the heat.
Cream Cheese: Provides a rich, creamy filling that tames the spice and creates a smooth base.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds sharpness and melty texture to balance the filling.
Cooked Bacon: Brings a salty, smoky crunch that elevates every bite.
Ranch Seasoning: Adds savory, herb-packed flavor to the creamy filling.
Garlic Powder: Gives the filling a little punch and depth.

How To Make the Cowboy Jalapeño Poppers

Step 1: Prep the Jalapeños

Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membranes. Use gloves if you’re sensitive to spice. Set the halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, ranch seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth. Fold in half of the crumbled bacon.

Step 3: Fill and Top

Using a spoon or piping bag, stuff each jalapeño half generously with the filling. Sprinkle remaining crumbled bacon on top of each one.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-18 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the peppers have softened.

Serving and Storing Cowboy Jalapeño Poppers

These poppers are best served warm and gooey straight from the oven, but they’re just as tasty at room temperature—perfect for parties. They make enough to serve about 6-8 people as appetizers.

Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the texture crisp. Avoid microwaving as it softens the peppers too much.

What to Serve With Cowboy Jalapeño Poppers

Loaded Potato Skins

Double down on the snack spread with another cheesy, bacon-filled favorite.

Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs

These mini flavor bombs are hearty enough to balance the poppers’ heat.

Spicy Sailor’s Dip

For a dunkable, creamy counterpoint, this dip is a hit with any crowd.

Crack Green Beans

A sweet, savory veggie dish to cool the spice.

Avocado Bacon and Egg Toasts

Serve these poppers as part of a brunch board with hearty toast options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these poppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep and fill the jalapeños a day in advance, then store them covered in the fridge. Bake just before serving for best results.

Are these spicy?
They have a gentle kick depending on how much membrane and seeds you leave in. Want it milder? Remove all seeds. Need more heat? Leave a few in or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the filling.

Can I use an air fryer instead of baking?
Yes! Air fry the poppers at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times vary by model.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If these Cowboy Jalapeño Poppers hit the spot, you’ll definitely want to check out these other crowd favorites:

Save This Pin For Later

Pin these Cowboy Jalapeño Poppers to your favorite appetizer or party snack board so they’re ready for your next gathering.
Tried them? I’d love to hear how they turned out! Did you tweak the filling, go extra spicy, or maybe add a drizzle of BBQ sauce on top?

Join me on Pinterest for more fun, quick, and flavor-packed bites.

Cowboy Jalapeño Poppers

Author: Tanya Rivers
Total Time: 33 minutes
Yield: 24 poppers

Print Recipe

Description

Turn up the heat with these Cowboy Jalapeño Poppers, the ultimate party appetizer bursting with bold flavor. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with crispy bacon, each jalapeño half is stuffed and baked to golden perfection. This easy recipe is a hit for game day, potlucks, and casual gatherings. Whether you’re looking for quick appetizers, low-carb snacks, or bold food ideas that impress, this dish delivers every time. Perfect for anyone who loves spicy finger food with a creamy twist, these poppers are about to become your new favorite easy recipe!