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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Cream Cheese Meatballs

bacon-wrapped jalapeño cream cheese meatballs - featured image
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These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño cream cheese meatballs are an easy, flavorful appetizer perfect for parties, combining creamy, spicy, and smoky flavors with a crispy bacon exterior.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (85% lean)
  • 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 medium jalapeños, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
  • 8 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil. Place a wire rack on top.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef and softened cream cheese. Mix gently until evenly combined.
  3. Add finely diced jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  4. Roll the mixture into 16 evenly sized meatballs, about 1 ½ inches (4 cm) in diameter.
  5. Cut each bacon slice in half. Wrap each meatball with a half-slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
  6. Place the bacon-wrapped meatballs spaced evenly on the wire rack over the baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
  8. Check that the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F (71°C).
  9. Let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Keep bacon slices cold before wrapping to help them cling better. If bacon curls too much, microwave slices for 10 seconds before wrapping. Chill meatballs for 15 minutes before wrapping to prevent cream cheese from oozing out. Turn meatballs halfway through baking for even crispiness. Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon-wrapped meatballs, jalapeño meatballs, cream cheese meatballs, party appetizers, easy meatballs, spicy appetizers, finger food

Find it online: https://atomicbite.com/crispy-bacon-wrapped-jalape-n-o-cream-cheese-meatballs-recipe-easy-and-perfect-for-parties/