These Jalapeño Popper Pigs In A Blanket are a fun twist on a classic snack! Juicy sausages wrapped in flaky dough and packed with cheesy, spicy goodness will make your taste buds dance.
Perfect for parties or just a cozy night in, they’re easy to eat and so tasty! I love serving them with a side of ranch for dipping. Get ready for your new favorite finger food! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jalapeño Peppers: Fresh jalapeños bring the heat! If you’re sensitive to spice, try using poblano peppers, which are milder and still delicious when stuffed.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese. For a dairy-free choice, try cashew cream or a vegan cream cheese alternative.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is perfect for flavor. You can substitute with colby jack or Monterey Jack cheese. Vegan cheese options are great too!
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for its flavor and crunch. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey bacon works well. For a vegetarian version, leave out the meat and add more cheese!
Crescent Roll Dough: The crescent rolls provide that flaky texture. If you can’t find them, puff pastry can be used instead. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as needed.
How Do You Prepare Jalapeños for Stuffing?
Preparing jalapeños is an important step for this recipe. Here’s how to handle them with ease:
- Start by washing the jalapeños to remove any dirt.
- Cut them in half lengthwise, carefully using a sharp knife.
- Use a small spoon or a knife to gently scrape out the seeds and the white membranes. This helps reduce the heat!
- Be cautious while handling them; wearing gloves is a good idea if you’re sensitive to spicy foods.
By taking your time with the jalapeños, you’ll get the right balance of flavor without overwhelming heat! Enjoy the process!
Jalapeño Popper Pigs In A Blanket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 8 jalapeño peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 slices cooked bacon, halved
For the Dough:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
For the Seasoning:
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Finishing Touch:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Extra jalapeño slices for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 15-18 minutes for baking. Allow a few additional minutes for cooling before serving. All in all, you’re looking at around 40 minutes until you can enjoy these yummy bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until it’s creamy and smooth.
3. Prepare the Jalapeños:
Take each jalapeño half and stuff it with the cheese mixture. Be generous, but be careful not to overfill so that it doesn’t ooze out while baking.
4. Wrap with Bacon:
Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a half slice of cooked bacon, ensuring it’s nicely covered.
5. Roll the Crescent Dough:
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles according to the package instructions. Take one bacon-wrapped jalapeño and place it at the wider end of the dough triangle, rolling it up toward the point. Make sure to slightly seal the edges as you roll.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place each rolled pig in a blanket onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out a little so they have room to expand as they bake.
7. Season the Rolls:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Brush the tops of each wrapped jalapeño with the beaten egg, and then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over them.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and fully cooked. Keep an eye on them towards the end for that perfect golden color!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re finished baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Optional: Garnish each with a fresh jalapeño slice for an extra pop of flavor!
Enjoy these cheesy, spicy, bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers in a blanket as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack! They’re bound to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Fresh Jalapeños Instead of Canned?
Yes, fresh jalapeños are perfect for this recipe! Just make sure to seed and halve them to avoid excessive heat and to make room for the stuffing.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a bacon substitute, try turkey bacon for a lighter option or omit it entirely and consider using more cheese or a plant-based bacon alternative for a vegetarian dish!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the jalapeño poppers up to a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator on a baking sheet, covered with plastic wrap, and bake when you’re ready to serve!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain that crispiness!