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Jalapeño poppers

Jalapeño Poppers

07/08/2026|by Jason Klein

Summer cookouts are even better with appetizers that disappear as quickly as they come off the grill, and Jalapeño Poppers are always among the first to go. This recipe combines fresh jalapeños, a rich blend of cream cheese and cheddar, smoky bacon, and a touch of sweet barbecue seasoning for the perfect balance of heat, smoke, and flavor. Whether you're serving a backyard barbecue, relaxing with neighbors on the patio, or waiting for the main course to finish, these poppers give everyone something hot and satisfying to enjoy straight from the grill.

Chef Johan Magnusson of Big Swede BBQ created this recipe to make the most of indirect grilling, allowing the bacon to cook until crisp while the cheese turns smooth and creamy without burning the peppers. A quick finish over direct heat adds extra color and texture when needed, giving every bite a crisp exterior with a warm, flavorful center. The result is an appetizer that's simple to prepare, easy to share, and always a favorite at summer gatherings.

Preparing recipes like these on a TrueFlame grill makes outdoor cooking feel effortless from start to finish. Even heat, responsive temperature control, and generous cooking space let you grill appetizers alongside burgers, steaks, chicken, or seafood without feeling crowded. As a result, you can keep everyone fed while enjoying more time with family and friends instead of running back and forth to the kitchen.

Looking for more outdoor cooking ideas? Follow TrueFlame Brand Ambassador Chef Johan Magnusson of Big Swede BBQ across his social media channels for fresh recipes, grilling tips, and barbecue inspiration throughout the year. You can also find his award-winning barbecue rubs, seasonings, and cookbook at BigSwedeBBQ.com to bring even more bold flavor to your next backyard meal.

Serves 4

Jalapeño Poppers Ingredients

  • 18 Whole Jalapeños

  • 18 strips of bacon

  • 10 oz Cream Cheese, softened

  • 1½ cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese

  • 1 Tbs Big Swede BBQ Badass Pork Boost, or your favorite sweet BBQ rub

  • Additional Pork Boost for seasoning

Jalapeño Poppers Directions

  1. Preheat your TrueFlame grill by igniting all main burners. Then close the hood and allow the grill to heat for 10 to 15 minutes; the hood thermometer should reach approximately 400°. Turn off all the knobs except one.

  2. Wash the jalapeños. Remove the stems and slice each pepper in half lengthwise. De-seed the core and remove the membranes.

  3. Place the cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 30 seconds until softened. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and 1 tablespoon of Big Swede BBQ Badass Pork Boost. Mix until thoroughly combined.

  4. Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture.

  5. Cut each bacon slice in half, then wrap one half around each filled pepper. Secure with a toothpick.

  6. Season the outside lightly with additional Pork Boost.

  7. Place the poppers on the grill over indirect heat. Close the hood and cook for approximately 15 minutes, or until the bacon is fully cooked and browned and the cheese is melted.

  8. Move the bacon briefly to the hot side if needed to crisp it, watching carefully for flare-ups.

  9. Remove the poppers from the grill and let them rest for 3 minutes. Remove the toothpicks and serve immediately.

 

Created by our Brand Ambassador, Chef Johan Magnusson of BigSwedeBBQ.com