The first time I popped one of these Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews into my mouth, I was instantly hooked by the explosion of flavors and textures. The sweet, slightly spicy peppadew pepper contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese filling and the rich, crispy bacon wrapping it all together. This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a cheerful gathering or just need a weekend snack that feels a bit fancy.
And let me tell you, they couldn’t be easier to make! I often find myself grabbing a jar of peppadews from my pantry when I want to impress without the stress of complicated recipes. With just a handful of ingredients and under an hour, you will have an irresistible crowd-pleaser ready to serve. So if you’re tired of the same old appetizers or fast food, let’s dive in and elevate your snack game with these delicious bites that promise to be a hit at your table!
Why are Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews A Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: These bites deliver a delightful mix of sweet, spicy, and savory.
Easy to Make: With just 15 minutes of prep, you’ll be on your way to deliciousness.
Impressive Presentation: Their vibrant colors and crispy bacon will wow your guests.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or movie nights, everyone will love them!
Versatile Snack: Great for pairing with dips or as a finger food option.
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet stunning recipe you won’t regret making!
Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews Ingredients
Get ready to gather the simple yet flavorful ingredients for your Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews!
For the Peppers
• Peppadew Peppers – A sweet and slightly spicy base that adds a unique flavor.
For the Cheese Filling
• Goat Cheese – Provides a tangy richness that pairs beautifully with bacon.
• Cream Cheese – Creates a creamy texture and balances the flavors.
• Garlic Powder – Adds a hint of aromatic warmth to the cheese filling.
• Onion Powder – Optional, but enhances the depth of flavor in the mix.
• Kosher Salt – Use to taste; it brings out the best in all the ingredients.
• Black Pepper – A dash adds an extra layer of seasoning that’s always welcome.
For the Bacon
• Thick-Cut Bacon – The star of the show; it’s essential for that crispy, savory wrapping!
These ingredients come together to create a snack that’s sure to impress with every delicious bite.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews
-
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that your Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews will cook evenly, making the bacon crispy and flavorful.
-
Mix the cheese filling by combining goat cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder (if using), salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Blend thoroughly until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
-
Stuff each Peppadew pepper generously with the cheese mixture. Don’t be shy; fill them up to ensure that rich, creamy filling is in every bite!
-
Wrap each stuffed pepper with a piece of bacon, tucking the ends underneath. If needed, use a toothpick to secure them tightly, ensuring no cheese escapes during baking.
-
Arrange the wrapped peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
-
Cool the peppadews for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle while preventing any nips of hot cheese!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews
- Room Temperature: If serving immediately, these Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews can be left out for up to 2 hours. After that, refrigerate to ensure freshness.
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore crispiness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stuffed peppadews prior to baking. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheating from Freezer: Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until heated through and bacon is crispy.
Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful bites to suit your preferences and dietary needs!
-
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños to the cheese filling for an extra burst of heat. This contrast amplifies the flavors for those who love some spice!
-
Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh herbs like chives or basil into the cheese mixture for an aromatic twist. These herbs will elevate your stuffed peppadews to a new level of freshness!
-
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate crushed walnuts or pecans into the cheese filling for added texture and a delightful crunch. The earthy flavors pair beautifully with the savory bacon!
-
Vegan Option: Use a plant-based cream cheese and smoked coconut bacon for a vegan-friendly version that still offers rich, satisfying flavors. Your guests won’t even miss the meat!
-
Cheese Lovers: Blend extra cheese varieties like cheddar or feta for an even creamier filling that packs a punch. The flavor profiles come together for an irresistibly cheesy bite!
-
Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a bit of honey or balsamic glaze over the finished peppadews before serving for a sweet contrast to the savory bacon. It adds a delicious sweet note that highlights the peppers!
-
Stuffed with Meat: For a heartier recipe, include chopped cooked sausage or pepperoni into the cheese mixture. This twist will make these bites even more filling and packed with flavor!
-
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika in the cheese filling for a subtle smoky taste that perfectly complements the crispy bacon finish. A little hint of smoke can transform the whole dish!
What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews?
Elevate your snacking experience with accompanying dishes that harmonize and enhance the flavors of these delightful bites.
-
Crispy Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of crispy garlic bread provides a perfect contrast to the rich flavors of the peppadews. It’s a wonderful option to soak up any extra cheese flavors too!
-
Fresh Garden Salad: A vibrant garden salad infused with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the creamy, savory stuffed peppadews effortlessly. It brings a burst of color and adds a healthful touch to your meal.
-
Spicy Aioli: A zesty homemade spicy aioli served on the side enhances each bite, giving that creamy goodness an exciting kick. This condiment option is ideal for those who love adding a little heat.
-
Cheesy Queso Dip: Warm and gooey queso dip creates a decadent indulgence alongside these peppadews, making every bite feel special. Dip in fresh tortilla chips for even more delightful textures!
-
Roasted Veggies: Lightly seasoned roasted vegetables embody a warm earthiness that complements the sweet heat of the peppadews nicely while contributing a healthy dose of nutrients to your gathering.
-
Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine harmonizes beautifully with the salty, crispy bacon and creamy cheese, elevating your entire appetizer experience. The rich flavors truly enhance the enjoyment of these stuffed delights.
-
Chocolate Mousse: Finish your culinary journey with a rich and airy chocolate mousse. The sweetness and texture balance the savoriness of the peppadews, creating a satisfying end to your meal.
These pairing options will surely take your Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews from delicious to truly unforgettable!
Tips for the Best Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews
-
Prep Your Peppers: Always drain and pat dry the Peppadew peppers thoroughly. Excess moisture can make the bacon soggy, affecting the overall texture.
-
Choose Quality Bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon that crisps up beautifully and provides a heartier bite, enhancing your Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews.
-
Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allow the stuffed peppadews to cool for a few minutes after baking. This step prevents burns and ensures the cheese filling is perfectly cozy when served.
-
Season Wisely: Taste your cheese filling before stuffing to ensure it’s seasoned just right. Adjust salt or spices as needed to elevate the flavors perfectly.
-
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add herbs or spices to the cheese mixture for a unique twist. Getting creative keeps the recipe fresh and exciting!
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cheese filling and stuff the peppadew peppers up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the goat cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder (if using), salt, and pepper, then stuff the peppers and wrap them with bacon. To maintain their quality, refrigerate them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just preheat the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the bacon is crispy. This allows you to enjoy these delightful bites with minimal effort, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or gatherings!
Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best Peppadew peppers?
Absolutely! When choosing Peppadew peppers, look for ones that are plump, firm, and vibrant in color. Avoid any that show signs of wrinkling or have dark spots all over, as these may be past their prime. As they’re often sold jarred, make sure to check the jar’s seal and expiration date for the freshest options.
How should I store leftover Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews?
Very simple! After your gathering, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The bacon might lose some of its crispiness, so when you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
Can I freeze Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, prepare the stuffed peppadews as instructed but do not bake them. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until solid, about 1 to 2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and they will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake directly from frozen for 30-35 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.
What dietary considerations should I keep in mind with this recipe?
If you’re cooking for others, consider any allergies they might have. This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and pork (bacon), which are common allergens. If you need to make it dairy-free, try substituting the cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. For those seeking a vegetarian option, you could replace the bacon with a plant-based bacon alternative or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor without sacrificing heartiness.
What should I do if my bacon isn’t crisping up while baking?
Great question! If you find that your bacon is not crisping, the issue could stem from excess moisture on the peppers. Make sure that you thoroughly drain and pat the Peppadew peppers dry before stuffing them. Also, consider reducing the baking time or increasing the oven temperature slightly. If you’re using a convection oven, that can help with achieving a crispier finish too. Simply place them closer to the heating element for the last few minutes of baking if necessary.
Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Peppadews for an Irresistible Snack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix the cheese filling by combining goat cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Stuff each Peppadew pepper generously with the cheese mixture.
- Wrap each stuffed pepper with a piece of bacon, securing it if necessary with a toothpick.
- Arrange the wrapped peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes until the bacon is crispy.
- Cool the peppadews for a few minutes before serving.