Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket 🌶️🥓

These Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket are a fun twist on the classic appetizer! Bursting with flavor from the jalapeños, cream cheese, and crispy bacon, they make the perfect party treat or game day snack. The buttery, golden puff pastry wraps up the goodness, offering a delightful crunch with each bite. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick!

Ingredients

For the poppers

• 6 jalapeños, halved and seeded
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the pigs in a blanket

• 1 package refrigerated puff pastry (2 sheets)
• 1 lb mini sausages (e.g., cocktail wieners)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Everything bagel seasoning (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. Prepare the jalapeño filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.

2. Stuff the jalapeños: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Fill each jalapeño half with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture. Set aside.

3. Roll out the pastry: On a floured surface, roll out each puff pastry sheet to smooth it out. Cut each sheet into equal-sized rectangles, approximately 3x4 inches.

4. Wrap the sausages: Place a stuffed jalapeño on one end of each pastry rectangle and top it with a mini sausage. Roll the pastry around the filling, securing them tightly. Pinch the edges to seal.

5. Prepare for baking: Place the wrapped pigs in a blanket seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning, if desired.

6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.

7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or spicy mustard.

🌟 Feel free to add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper to the cream cheese mixture for an extra kick! You can also experiment with different cheese types, such as pepper jack for more heat.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute mini sausages with plant-based versions and omit the bacon if desired. They’ll still pack a punch with jalapeños and cheese!
• Spicy: For an extra spicy version, leave some seeds in the jalapeños, or try using poblano peppers for a different flavor profile.
• Cheesy Bacon Explosion: Add an extra layer of melted cheddar cheese on top before baking for an even cheesier treat!
• Low-carb: Use almond flour dough instead of puff pastry for a keto-friendly version. The texture will vary but will still be delicious!

These Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket are sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a hit at your next gathering! 🥳