Print

Crispy Armadillo Eggs Recipe Easy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Appetizers

crispy armadillo eggs recipe - featured image

Crispy Armadillo Eggs are bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers stuffed with a creamy blend of cream cheese and cheddar, delivering a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors. This quick and easy appetizer is perfect for parties, game days, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 large fresh jalapeños, washed and halved lengthwise (seeds removed for milder heat or kept for extra kick)
  • 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 100 g)
  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon (regular or turkey bacon)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top if available.
  2. Slice jalapeños in half lengthwise and carefully remove seeds and membranes. Pat dry with a paper towel to reduce moisture.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika or cayenne if using. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  4. Using a spoon or small scoop, fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture without overfilling.
  5. Wrap one slice of bacon tightly around each stuffed jalapeño half. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
  6. Place each bacon-wrapped jalapeño seam side down on the wire rack or directly on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, checking at 20 minutes. Bacon should be crispy and slightly browned, cheese bubbly.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow cheese to set.

Notes

Use thin-cut bacon for best crispiness; pat jalapeños dry to reduce moisture and keep bacon crispy. Rotate baking sheet halfway through baking for even cooking. Can be made dairy-free with dairy-free cream cheese and vegan cheese. Can be frozen unbaked and baked from frozen with extra cooking time.

Nutrition

Keywords: armadillo eggs, bacon-wrapped jalapeños, jalapeño poppers, appetizer, party food, game day snack, spicy, creamy, easy recipe