Smoky Colorado Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Jalapenos

There are few appetizers that command attention quite like the classic jalapeno popper, but when you give it the Colorado treatment on a high-heat grill, it transforms into something truly spectacular. This recipe captures the essence of outdoor cooking by combining fresh, spicy heat with the creamy indulgence of cheese and the savory, salty punch of bacon. It is the ultimate finger food for game days, backyard barbecues, or any gathering where bold flavors are required. Unlike oven-baked versions that can turn soggy, grilling these peppers on the flat top or grate of your grill ensures the bacon crisps up perfectly while the pepper retains a satisfying snap. The contrast between the charred, smoky exterior and the molten, cheesy center creates a texture profile that is absolutely addictive. Whether you are an experienced pitmaster or just firing up the grill for the weekend, these bacon-wrapped delights are guaranteed to be the first thing to disappear from the serving platter.

Ingredients

• 12 Fresh Jalapeno Peppers (large, straight peppers work best)
• 1 Block (8 oz) Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (sharp or mild based on preference)
• 12 Slices of Bacon (standard cut, not thick cut as it wraps easier)
• 1 Tablespoon BBQ Seasoning or dry rub of your choice
• Toothpicks (soaked in water if using over open flames)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

1. Begin by washing the jalapenos thoroughly and drying them completely.
2. Cut the stem end off of each jalapeno and slice them in half lengthwise.
3. Using a small spoon or a paring knife, carefully scrape out the seeds and white membrane to create a hollow boat. Remove all seeds for a mild appetizer, or leave a few in if you prefer a spicier kick.

Step 2: Create the Cheese Filling

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Add your preferred BBQ seasoning or dry rub to the cheese mixture.
3. Mix thoroughly with a fork or spatula until all ingredients are well combined and the texture is uniform.

Step 3: Stuff and Wrap

1. Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling it just level with the edges of the pepper. Avoid overfilling, as the cheese will expand when hot.
2. Take a slice of bacon and wrap it spirally around the stuffed pepper. If the bacon slices are long, you may cut them in half.
3. Secure the ends of the bacon with a toothpick to ensure it stays in place during the grilling process.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

1. Preheat your Arteflame grill or standard grill. You are looking for medium heat (around 350°F to 375°F).
2. Place the peppers on the grill. If using an Arteflame, place them on the flat cooktop surface where the heat is moderate, or use the grill grate for more smoke flavor.
3. Grill for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure the bacon cooks evenly on all sides and becomes crispy.
4. Remove from the grill once the bacon is browned and the peppers are tender. Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving to avoid burns from the hot cheese.

Tips

Achieving the perfect grilled popper requires a balance between crisping the bacon and melting the cheese without losing all the filling. First, always use room temperature cream cheese; it mixes better and melts more consistently. When wrapping the bacon, try to stretch it slightly; this helps it adhere to the pepper and crisp up faster. If you are using an Arteflame grill, utilize the temperature zones on the plancha. Start the peppers closer to the center to sear the bacon quickly, then move them to the outer, cooler ring to let the peppers soften without burning the wrap. If you find your bacon is flabby but the pepper is done, you can briefly sear the bacon side directly on the hottest part of the grill. Finally, soaking your toothpicks in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from catching fire and turning into ash before your food is ready.

Variations

While the classic cream cheese and cheddar blend is a staple, these Colorado-style poppers are incredibly versatile canvases for culinary creativity. You can easily alter the flavor profile to match the theme of your meal or the preferences of your guests. Here are a few popular twists on the original recipe:

• The Carnivore: Mix cooked, crumbled chorizo or breakfast sausage into the cream cheese mixture for an extra meaty bite.
• Sweet & Spicy: Drizzle the peppers with hot honey or maple syrup during the last 2 minutes of grilling for a candied bacon effect.
• The Tex-Mex: Swap cheddar for Pepper Jack cheese and mix in a teaspoon of cumin and fresh cilantro.
• Atomic Poppers: Leave the seeds in and mix a dash of cayenne pepper or diced habanero into the cheese filling for maximum heat.
• Garlic Herb: Use garlic and herb-infused cream cheese and wrap with prosciutto instead of bacon for a sophisticated twist.

Best pairings

These rich, spicy, and savory bites need beverages and sides that can cut through the fat and heat. Because of the intense flavors, they serve as an excellent starter for a heavy barbecue meal. They pair exceptionally well with the following:

• Beverages: A crisp, cold lager or a hoppy IPA helps cleanse the palate of the rich cheese and bacon fat. For a non-alcoholic option, a lime-infused sparkling water or a sweet iced tea balances the spice perfectly.
• Main Courses: These are the perfect prelude to grilled ribeye steaks, smoked brisket, or juicy wagyu burgers. The smoky profile flows seamlessly into red meat dishes.
• Sides: Serve alongside a cooling cucumber salad, coleslaw, or grilled corn on the cob to offer a texture and temperature contrast to the hot peppers.

Conclusion

Mastering these Colorado Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Jalapenos is a rite of passage for any outdoor cooking enthusiast. They offer a sophisticated yet rugged combination of flavors that appeals to almost everyone. The magic lies in the interaction between the grill's heat and the ingredients—the way the bacon fat renders down to baste the pepper, while the cheese becomes a savory, gooey delight. By following these simple steps and utilizing the unique cooking surface of your grill, you elevate a simple bar snack into a gourmet appetizer. So, the next time you fire up the grill, make sure these peppers are on the menu. They are easy to prep, fun to cook, and impossible to eat just one of.