Introduction
If you’re looking to spice up your next gathering, these stuffed jalapeños wrapped in bacon are the perfect choice. Bursting with flavors from smoked beef brisket, creamy cheese, and a touch of barbecue sauce, they offer a satisfying blend of heat and savory goodness. A sure crowd-pleaser, these bites are great for parties, game days, or any occasion that calls for delicious finger foods. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation for this mouthwatering treat!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
12 large fresh jalapeños
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup pepper jack cheese, freshly shredded
12 ounces chopped smoked beef brisket
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1½ teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
24 ounces thick-cut bacon
Rounded toothpicks (to secure the bacon)
¾ cup sweet and tangy barbecue sauce
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 stuffed jalapeños
With this recipe, you can create a delicious appetizer that everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking experience and savor the delightful flavors of these bacon-wrapped jalapeños!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil, place a cooling rack over the baking sheet, and generously spray with nonstick cooking spray.
Prepare the Jalapeños
Carefully slice a “T” into each jalapeño just under the cap or stem. Scrape out the seeds and membranes, leaving the cap or stem attached. Wearing nitrile gloves is recommended to reduce irritation to your hands.
Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium-sized bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, kosher salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Incorporate Pepper Jack Cheese
Stir in the shredded pepper jack cheese and set aside.
Stuff the Jalapeños
Fill the hollowed-out jalapeños with the chopped brisket.
Add Cream Cheese Mixture
Using either a spoon or a piping bag, add the cream cheese mixture on top of the brisket. Stuff as much cream cheese as possible on top, as the jalapeños will be wrapped in bacon.
Wrap the Jalapeños
Wrap two slices of bacon tightly around each stuffed jalapeño. Secure the bacon in place with 1-2 toothpicks.
Arrange for Baking
Place the wrapped jalapeños on the rack over the baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes or until the bacon is crisp.
Increase Oven Temperature
After 45 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 400°F.
Apply Barbecue Sauce
Remove the pan from the oven and brush the jalapeños with barbecue sauce.
Final Baking
Return them to the oven for another 10 minutes until the bacon is crisp and caramelized.
Rest Before Serving
Remove from the oven and allow the wrapped jalapeños to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Handling Jalapeños
To minimize skin irritation when handling jalapeños, consider wearing gloves.
Adjusting Spice Levels
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can remove more seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F before starting the preparation of your jalapeños to ensure even cooking.
Preparing Jalapeños
Slice a “T” shape into each jalapeño under the cap to create an opening for stuffing, and remove seeds and membranes to control heat.
Mixing Filling
Combine softened cream cheese, kosher salt, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl to create a flavorful filling.
Stuffing Jalapeños
Fill the hollowed jalapeños with chopped smoked beef brisket, followed by the cream cheese mixture, packing it tightly.
Wrapping with Bacon
Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with two slices of bacon secured with toothpicks to hold everything together during baking.
Baking Process
Bake the wrapped jalapeños on a cooling rack over a baking sheet for 45 minutes to achieve a crispy bacon texture.
Applying Barbecue Sauce
After the initial baking, brush the jalapeños with a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce to enhance flavor and add caramelization.
Final Baking
Return the jalapeños to the oven at a higher temperature of 400°F for 10 more minutes to ensure the bacon is fully crisp and the sauce has set.
Resting Time
Allow the jalapeños to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the flavors settle before serving.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese instead of pepper jack?
Yes, you can substitute with other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack, but the flavor profile may change.
How can I reduce the spiciness of the jalapeños?
Removing the seeds and membranes greatly reduces heat; you can also choose milder pepper varieties if desired.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the jalapeños and refrigerate them before baking. Bake them when ready to serve.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can use turkey bacon or reduce the amount of bacon and cheese for a lighter version.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
A sweet and tangy barbecue sauce complements the flavors well, but you can choose based on your personal preference.
Conclusion
These delectable bacon-wrapped jalapeños stuffed with a savory mixture of beef brisket and cheeses offer a flavorful combination that is sure to impress at any gathering. The blend of smoky and spicy flavors, paired with the crispy bacon, makes for an irresistible appetizer that will keep your guests coming back for more.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Swap jalapeños for colorful bell peppers and use a mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices for a hearty twist.
Buffalo Chicken Jalapeños
Replace the brisket with shredded buffalo chicken and add a drizzle of blue cheese dressing for a spicy kick.
Italian Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
Use large mushrooms instead of jalapeños and stuff them with Italian sausage, cream cheese, and mozzarella for a savory bite.
Vegetable-Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Hollow out zucchini and fill them with a mixture of cream cheese, corn, black beans, and spices for a lighter option.
Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip Jalapeños
Fill the jalapeños with a creamy spinach artichoke dip and top with breadcrumbs for added crunch before wrapping in bacon.
Pineapple and Bacon Skewers
Combine sweet pineapple chunks with bacon on skewers for a different flavor profile that complements the jalapeños.
Mini Taco Cups
Use small tortillas instead of jalapeños and fill them with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and toppings for a bite-sized taco experience.
