Island BBQ Stuffed Jalapenos

Stuffed jalapenos
05/03/2026|Key West Spice Company|

Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Island BBQ seasoning
  • 8–10 medium jalapeño peppers
  • 1 slice bacon per ½ jalapeño

Instructions

  1. Prepare the filling
    In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and Island BBQ seasoning until well combined. Set aside.
  2. Prep the jalapeños
    Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds (and membranes if you want less heat).
  3. Stuff the peppers
    Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. Avoid overfilling so it doesn’t spill out while cooking.
  4. Wrap with bacon
    Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a slice of bacon. Secure with toothpicks at each end.
  5. Bake
    Place on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes, or until the bacon is cooked to your liking.
  6. Serve
    Let cool slightly and serve warm.

Grill Method (Smoky + Crispy)

Setup

  • Preheat grill to medium heat (about 375–400°F)
  • Use indirect heat if possible (keeps flare-ups from the bacon fat under control)

Steps

  1. Place jalapeños on the grill cheese side up.
  2. Cook over indirect heat for 20–25 minutes.
  3. If you want extra crispy bacon, move them to direct heat for 2–3 minutes at the end—watch closely to avoid burning.

Tips

  • A grill-safe tray or foil pan helps prevent cheese from dripping.
  • Add a bit of wood chips for extra smoky flavor if your grill allows.

Air Fryer Method (Fast + Super Crispy)

Setup

  • Preheat air fryer to 375°F

Steps

  1. Arrange jalapeños in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).
  2. Air fry for 10–14 minutes.
  3. Check around the 10-minute mark—cook until bacon is crisp to your liking.

Tips

  • If your bacon isn’t crisping enough, give it an extra 2–3 minutes at 400°F.
  • Use toothpicks sparingly or trim them so they fit inside the basket.

Extra Upgrade Ideas

  • Brush bacon lightly with a little KWSC Caribbean Rum BBQ Sauce in the last few minutes.
  • Sprinkle a touch of brown sugar before cooking for a sweet-heat combo.
  • Swap cheddar for pepper jack if you want more kick.