In a mixing bowl, combine:
- Cream cheese
- Cheddar cheese
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Green onions
Mix until smooth and evenly combined.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Fill each pepper half generously with the cheese mixture.
Avoid overfilling to prevent excessive melting during baking.
Step 4: Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each stuffed pepper with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick if needed.
Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until:
- Bacon is crispy
- Peppers are tender
- Filling is hot and bubbly
For extra crisp bacon, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking.
Step 6: Serve
Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving.
Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired.
Air Fryer Method
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C)
- Cook for 10-12 minutes
- Check for desired bacon crispness
Variations
Spicier Version
Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
Smoky Version
Mix smoked paprika into the cheese mixture.
Extra Cheesy
Use a combination of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack cheeses.
Herb Version
Add fresh cilantro, parsley, or chives for extra flavor.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Assemble the poppers up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
This makes entertaining much easier and allows you to serve them fresh from the oven.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in:
- Oven: 375°F for 8-10 minutes
- Air fryer: 350°F for 4-5 minutes
Avoid microwaving if possible, as the bacon may lose its crispness.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Popper)
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
Final Thoughts
Fresno Poppers offer a flavorful alternative to traditional jalapeño poppers. Their slightly sweet pepper flavor, creamy cheese filling, and crispy bacon create an irresistible appetizer that’s easy enough for weeknight snacking yet impressive enough for special occasions. Serve them hot and watch them disappear.
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