Prepare to have your taste buds absolutely rocked, y’all! Chef Max here, and I’m about to show you how to create the most epic, insane, and totally addictive Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Explosion Bites that will have your friends and family begging for the recipe. This dish is a flavor explosion like no other – we’re talking a delicious, cheesy, bacony, and slightly spicy masterpiece that’s going to leave you in a state of pure bliss. So, get ready to dive headfirst into flavor paradise, because these Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Explosion Bites are about to change the game!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Explosion Bites
These Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Explosion Bites are the ultimate snack or appetizer that will have everyone going absolutely wild. The combination of gooey, melty cheese, crispy bacon, and spicy jalapeños creates a sensational flavor explosion in every single bite. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a game-day bash, a party, or just looking for a mouthwatering treat to indulge in. Trust me, once you try these Explosion Bites, you’ll be hooked for life. They’re that good!
Ingredients
To make these mind-blowing Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Explosion Bites, you’ll need just a handful of simple, flavor-packed ingredients. We’re talking cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, fresh jalapeños, and a few other pantry staples. Get ready to transform these humble ingredients into an absolute flavor sensation!
- 8 oz (226g) – Cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (100g) – Shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices – Crispy bacon, crumbled
- 2 – Fresh jalapeños, seeded and diced
- 2 tbsp (30ml) – Milk or cream
Ingredient Substitutions
- Jalapeños: Swap them out for milder chili peppers, such as banana peppers or Anaheim peppers (for those who can’t handle the heat)
- Cheese: Try using a blend of different cheese varieties, like pepper jack or Monterey Jack, to change up the flavor profile
How to Make Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Explosion Bites
Alright, let’s dive into the step-by-step process for creating these insanely delicious Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Explosion Bites! Get ready for a flavor adventure like no other.
Step 1: Prep Work
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 24-count mini muffin tin and set it aside. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and diced jalapeños. Mix everything together until well-incorporated. Then, add the milk or cream and stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, evenly distribute the cheesy bacon jalapeño mixture into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 of the way full. Bake the Explosion Bites in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Once the Explosion Bites are done, let them cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes. Then, use a small knife or spoon to gently remove them from the tin and transfer them to a serving platter or plate.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Serve these Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Explosion Bites warm, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions if desired. Get ready for the oohs, aahs, and pure bliss that’s about to ensue!
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Add-Ins: Try mixing in some diced onions or garlic for extra flavor
- Cheese Blend: Experiment with a blend of different cheese varieties, like pepper jack or Monterey Jack
- Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle some crushed Doritos or crumbled bacon on top for an over-the-top, crave-worthy crunch
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeños to your desired level of heat
Serving & Storage
Serve with: Ranch dressing, salsa, or guacamole for dipping.
Storage: Store any leftover Explosion Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Reheat: To reheat, place the bites in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Make-Ahead: You can make the cheesy bacon jalapeño mixture in advance and refrigerate it until ready to assemble and bake the Explosion Bites.
Nutrition Information
These Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Explosion Bites are definitely not health food, but hey, sometimes you just need to indulge in something truly epic and delicious, am I right? Each bite is loaded with gooey, melty cheese, crispy bacon, and a touch of heat from the jalapeños. While they may not be the most nutritious option, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling completely satisfied.
- Serving Size: 1 Explosion Bite
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbs: 2 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these Explosion Bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cheesy bacon jalapeño mixture can be made in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake the Explosion Bites. Just make sure to give it a good stir before filling the muffin tin.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can definitely experiment with different cheese varieties! Pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses would work great in this recipe.
How spicy are the Explosion Bites?
The level of heat in these Explosion Bites will depend on the size and spiciness of the jalapeños you use. If you’re not a fan of too much heat, you can use fewer jalapeños or swap them out for milder chili peppers like banana peppers or Anaheim peppers.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, these Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Explosion Bites are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels on any ingredients, like the bacon, to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The best way to reheat the Explosion Bites is in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy again. You can also try reheating them in an air fryer for a quick and easy option.
Try These Next
- Sweet Chili Bacon Cheesecake Bites
- Spicy Maple Bacon Cheesecake Bites With Caramel Drizzle
- Cheesy Bacon Jalapeno Macaroni Bake
Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Explosion Bites
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Cheese Avalanche
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Explosion Bites are a spicy, cheesy delight that will have your taste buds dancing! Perfect for parties or game day, these bites are sure to impress.
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
4 fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375.
2. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
4. Dredge each stuffed jalapeño in panko breadcrumbs.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
Notes
These bites can be made ahead of time and frozen. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pieces
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: jalapeño, cheese, bacon, appetizer