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Recipes

13 Jalapeño Poppers Recipes Perfect for Game Day

This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at Notre Dame chapter.

Whether it’s March Madness, tailgating season, or you’re just hanging out with friends, jalapeño poppers are always a good call. But although I love these little bites, the regular poppers wrapped in bacon can get boring after a while. I’m always on the lookout for different recipes to liven up the party, and I’ve found a few truly outstanding ways to switch up your average jalapeño popper. So get your brackets ready and come with empty stomachs, because these jalapeño poppers recipes are exactly what you’re craving.

#SpoonTip: Wear gloves while handling the jalapeño peppers and avoid touching your eyes while you’re cutting them.

1. Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Pepper Poppers

tailgate jalapeno avocado
Alexa Gambero

Starting off with the classic jalapeño popper, because everything tastes better wrapped in bacon. These bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are the perfect combination of sweet and spicy. 

2. Gluten-Free Burrata Jalapeño Poppers

jalapeño poppers recipes vegetable rice
FoodBeast FoodBeast

AKA the reverse jalapeño popper. This burrata jalapeño popper is perfect for catering to your gluten-free friends. And did I mention it still tastes fire?

3. Bacon Mac & Cheese Jalapeño Poppers

Bacon, mac and cheese, and jalapeño poppers all in one. Can it get any better than this? These mouthwatering poppers have everything you could ever want.

4. Scrambled Egg Cup Jalapeño Poppers

jalapeño poppers recipes cheese meat
Emma Lally

Have an early game day coming up? Kick off your morning with these spicy egg cup poppers. Your mouth may be on fire, but your tastebuds will thank you.

5. Salmon Jalapeño Poppers

jalapeño poppers recipes bacon cheese
Debra Paul

A healthier twist to the traditional jalapeño popper.  This winning recipe for salmon jalapeño poppers is sure to satisfy your spice cravings without making you feel bloated after.

6. Tater Tot-Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers

jalapeño poppers recipes vegetable rice
Molly Gamache

Tots on tots on tots on tots. Because everyone loves tater tots, so why not stuff your poppers with them? Pure cheesy potato popper goodness.

7. Jalapeño Popper Crisps

These jalapeño popper crisps may be low-carb, but they’re still packed with flavor. And yes, there’s still bacon in this recipe.

8. Bacon Jalapeño Cream Cheese Poppers

jalapeño poppers recipes
Celeste Holben

Anything stuffed inside a crescent roll is bound to be good, and these bacon jalapeño cream cheese poppers do not disappoint.

9. Jalapeño Popper Dogs

This twist on jalapeño poppers is perfect for America’s favorite pastime. Grab a jalapeño dog and cheer on your favorite baseball team this season. Go Cubs go!

10. Jalapeño Cornbread Poppers

jalapeño poppers recipes seafood vegetable
Maddie Cole

With only four ingredients, can it get much easier? Jalapeño cornbread poppers take less than 30 minutes to make and will be a sure hit.

11. Jalapeño Popper Deviled Eggs

A classic appetizer with a twist. Jalapeño popper deviled eggs are definitely going to be your new favorite. They’re easily the most flavorful deviled eggs you’ll ever taste.

12. Jalapeño Popper Wonton Cups

Add a little Asian flare to your tailgate with these jalapeño popper wonton cups. These babies are loaded with bacon, cheddar cheese, jalapeño, sour cream, and cream cheese.

13. Jalapeño Popper Dip

Last but not least, the perfect dip to bring along to any tailgate. This jalapeño popper dip will be the hottest snack at your party. YUM.

These recipes are so unique that you don’t have to worry about there being repeats at your next tailgate. These bad boys don’t have to just be for game day though; you can break them out at any party, really. I think I’m going to start by tackling the bacon mac and cheese jalapeño popper. Which one will you dare to try?