10 Winning Grill Recipes That Make Tailgating Unforgettable

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Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are the ultimate game-day snack with a fiery, smoky, and creamy bite in every piece. Fresh jalapeños are stuffed with a rich cream cheese filling, then wrapped in crispy bacon that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. The combination of heat from the peppers, coolness of the cheese, and savory bacon makes them irresistibly addictive. Perfect as a finger food appetizer, these poppers will disappear fast at your tailgate.

Ingredients (for 12 poppers):

• 6 fresh jalapeños, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 12 slices of bacon
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing grill grates)
• Toothpicks, soaked in water

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat and brush the grates with olive oil.
2. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and garlic until smooth.
3. Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling generously.
4. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place the poppers on the grill over indirect heat and cook for 15–20 min., turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the jalapeños are tender.
6. Remove from the grill, let cool for 2–3 min. and serve hot.