Smoked Jalapeño Poppers
Smoked Jalapeño Poppers are the ultimate BBQ appetizer—spicy, smoky, and wrapped in crispy bacon. Fresh jalapeños are stuffed with a smoked cream cheesy filling, then slow-smoked to perfection.
Servings 8
Calories 359kcal
Ingredients
- 8 jalapeños
- 16 oz cream cheese I love using smoked cream cheese, but softened cream cheese will work great too.
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar/jack cheese
- 2 tbsp BBQ seasoning Our homemade rib rub is sweet and with a little kick, perfect for these poppers
- 16 slices thin cut bacon Thick cut will not render and go crispy.
Instructions
- Set your smoker temperature to 275°F set up for indirect cooking with your preferred smoke wood.
- Prepare the jalapeños by slicing off the stems, cutting them in half lengthwise, and removing the seeds and membranes with a spoon. For less heat, remove all the membranes; for more spice, leave some intact.
- Add the cream cheese to a mixing bowl and add the shredded cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Fill the jalapeño halves with the cream cheese mixture, then wrap each one in a slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Arrange poppers on a wire rack or directly on the smoker grates, making sure they’re evenly spaced. Smoke for 1 to 1½ hours or until the bacon is as crispy as you like.
- Remove from the smoker and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite BBQ sauce, ranch, or spicy dip!
Notes
Smoked cream cheese?
If you really want to amp up the smoky flavor, I highly recommend smoking the cream cheese before stuffing your poppers.
I’ve tested it both ways, and smoking the cream cheese first—especially with a light coating of BBQ rub—adds a deeper, richer smokiness that takes these jalapeño poppers to the next level. It melts beautifully into the filling, giving each bite that bold, smoky kick.
I have a full step-by-step smoked cream cheese recipe you can check out
Nutrition
Calories: 359kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 0.05g | Cholesterol: 78mg | Sodium: 552mg | Potassium: 156mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 785IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 135mg | Iron: 1mg
