Mexican Grilled Jalapeño Poppers with Bacon & Cheese

Introduction

These Grilled Jalapeño Poppers are a perfect combination of smoky, creamy, and spicy flavors. Fresh jalapeños are stuffed with a rich cheese filling, wrapped in crispy bacon, and cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill. The flat cooktop ensures even cooking, while the bacon crisps up beautifully without burning. Perfect for any BBQ or Mexican-inspired meal!

Ingredients

• 10 fresh jalapeño peppers
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 10 slices of bacon
• 1 tbsp butter (for grilling)
• Toothpicks (to secure bacon)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood on top of the soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the fire to build for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop is evenly heated.

Step 2: Prepare the jalapeños

1. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
2. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.

Step 3: Wrap with bacon

1. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.

Step 4: Grill to perfection

1. Place the wrapped poppers on the flat cooktop griddle towards the hotter center.
2. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

1. Remove poppers from the grill and allow them to cool for a couple of minutes.
2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips

• For extra smoky flavor, use hickory or mesquite wood.
• Adjust jalapeño spice level by leaving or removing more seeds.
• Use thick-cut bacon for a more substantial bite.
• Grill over indirect heat if the bacon cooks too quickly.

Variations

1. Chorizo-Stuffed: Mix cooked chorizo into the cheese filling for extra spice.
2. BBQ Glazed: Brush poppers with BBQ sauce in the last few minutes for a tangy twist.
3. Pepper Jack Cheese: Swap cheddar for pepper jack for more heat.
4. Herb-Infused: Add fresh chopped cilantro to the cheese filling.
5. Buffalo Style: Drizzle with buffalo sauce before serving for zesty heat.

Conclusion

Grilled Jalapeño Poppers make an incredible appetizer packed with bold flavors. The Arteflame grill ensures perfect bacon crispiness and cheese melt, making this a must-try for any gathering. Try different variations and pair them with delicious sides!

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob
• Smoky grilled chicken or steak
• Cold Mexican lagers or margaritas
• Fresh guacamole and tortilla chips