Ingredients:

  • 12 large jalapenos (approx. 1 lb), halved lengthwise
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz bacon, cooked crispy and finely crumbled
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. Wash the jalapenos and pat them dry.
  2. Slice each pepper in half lengthwise and scrape out the seeds and white membranes using a small spoon or paring knife.
  3. Brush the interior and exterior of the peppers lightly with olive oil.
  4. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  5. Fold in the shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt until the filling is thick and cohesive.
  6. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  7. Spoon approximately 1 generous tablespoon of the filling into each jalapeno half, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  8. Arrange the peppers on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 18–22 minutes.