Description
This Jalapeño Popper Bagels recipe combines the creamy richness of cream cheese and sharp cheddar with the spicy kick of fresh jalapeños and crispy bacon, all melted onto toasted bagel halves. A perfect spicy and savory snack or appetizer, these warm, cheesy bagels deliver bold flavors with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Cream Mixture
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack
- 2 jalapeños, minced
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 5 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
Bagels and Garnish
- 3 bagels, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack (for topping)
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Cook Bacon: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they are crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then chop into small pieces.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded white cheddar, 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack, minced jalapeños, garlic powder, chopped bacon, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble Bagels: Spread the prepared cream cheese mixture evenly over the cut side of each bagel half. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top of the spread mixture.
- Bake the Bagels: Place the assembled bagel halves on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bagel is warmed through.
- Garnish and Serve: After baking, garnish each bagel half with thin slices of fresh jalapeño for an extra spicy bite. Serve warm and enjoy your spicy, cheesy Jalapeño Popper Bagels!
Notes
- You can adjust the number of jalapeños or omit the seeds for a milder heat level.
- Use thick-cut bacon for a crunchier texture in the filling.
- For extra crispiness, consider toasting the bagels lightly before adding the toppings.
- Serve these bagels as an appetizer or a hearty snack.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat in an oven or toaster oven to preserve texture.
