Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

Ingredients

• 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
• Toothpicks
• Wood pellets (fruitwood like apple or cherry for a mild smokiness)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Pellet Smoker:
   • Preheat your pellet smoker to 225°F (107°C)using fruitwood pellets for a mild and complementary smoky flavor.
2. Prep Jalapeños:
   • Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the heat.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
4. Stuff the Jalapeños:
   • Fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture, pressing it in slightly.
5. Wrap with Bacon:
   • Wrap each cream cheese-filled jalapeño half with a half-slice of bacon. Secure the bacon with toothpicks, making sure to insert them through the loose ends to prevent unraveling during smoking.
6. Place on the Pellet Smoker:
   • Arrange the bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers directly on the preheated smoker grates, ensuring that they are spaced apart for even smoking.
7. Smoke the Poppers:
   • Smoke the bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers at 225°F for approximately 2 to 2.5 hours or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapeños are tender.
8. Check for Doneness:
   • Periodically check the poppers and rotate them if necessary to ensure even smoking. The bacon should have a golden-brown color and be fully cooked.
9. Rest and Serve:
   • Once done, carefully remove the smoked jalapeño poppers from the pellet smoker. Let them rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to settle.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Serve the smoked bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers hot as a flavorful appetizer or side dish.
11. Optional Finish:
    • For an extra kick, you can brush the smoked poppers with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last 15 minutes of smoking for a sweet and tangy glaze.

These Smoked Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are a delightful combination of heat, creaminess, and smoky goodness. Whether served as an appetizer at a gathering or as a tasty side dish, these poppers will surely be a hit. Adjust the filling ingredients to your liking and enjoy the irresistible flavor from your Blackstone Pellet Grill.