Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that packs a punch of flavor? Texas Twinkies are here to steal the show! These jalapeño peppers are stuffed with a cheesy, meaty filling, wrapped in smoky bacon, and baked to crispy perfection. Drizzled with barbecue sauce, they’re a perfect blend of spice, creaminess, and savory goodness. Ideal for game day, BBQs, or any gathering, Texas Twinkies are sure to impress.
What Makes Texas Twinkies So Irresistible?
This recipe takes stuffed jalapeños to the next level by combining bold flavors and contrasting textures:
- Spicy Jalapeños: The perfect vessel for a flavorful filling, with just the right amount of heat.
- Cheesy Goodness: A creamy mixture of cream cheese, cheddar, and seasonings brings richness.
- Meaty Filling: Ground beef or turkey adds heartiness and depth.
- Crispy Bacon: Smoky, salty, and the ultimate finishing touch.
Drizzle with barbecue sauce for a sweet and tangy note that ties everything together.
Ingredients for Texas Twinkies
- Jalapeños (10 large): Halved and deseeded for less heat.
- Cream Cheese (1 cup): Softened for easy mixing.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor.
- Seasonings: 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Ground Beef or Turkey (1 pound): Cooked and seasoned.
- Bacon (10 slices): Halved to wrap each jalapeño.
- Barbecue Sauce: For drizzling after baking.
- Fresh Parsley or Chives: Optional garnish for a pop of color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Jalapeños
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon. This step reduces the heat level while creating a cavity for the filling.
2. Make the Filling
- Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix until smooth.
- Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain any excess fat and let it cool slightly.
- Combine: Add the cooked meat to the cheese mixture and stir until evenly combined.
3. Stuff the Jalapeños
- Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeño half with the cheesy meat mixture. Press gently to ensure the filling is packed in securely.
4. Wrap with Bacon
- Cut the bacon slices in half. Wrap each filled jalapeño with a half slice of bacon, overlapping slightly. Secure with a toothpick if needed to keep the bacon in place.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbling.
6. Drizzle and Serve
- Let the Texas Twinkies cool slightly after removing them from the oven.
- Drizzle with barbecue sauce and garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a final touch. Serve warm and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Texas Twinkies
- Customize the Filling: Add diced jalapeños to the filling for extra heat or mix in crumbled cooked bacon for additional smoky flavor.
- Crispier Bacon: Place the jalapeños on a wire rack over the baking sheet to allow air circulation and even crisping.
- Heat Level: For milder Twinkies, soak the deseeded jalapeños in cold water for 10 minutes before filling.
- Barbecue Twist: Brush the bacon with barbecue sauce before baking for a sticky, caramelized finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Texas Twinkies ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the jalapeños and refrigerate them (uncooked) for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh when ready to serve.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as the bacon may become soggy.
Can I grill instead of bake?
Absolutely! Grill over medium heat, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the filling is heated through.
Are there vegetarian options?
You can skip the meat and use a cheese-only filling or replace the meat with plant-based crumbles.
How spicy are Texas Twinkies?
Removing the seeds and membranes significantly reduces the heat. For more spice, leave some seeds intact or choose larger jalapeños for milder flavor.
What can I serve with Texas Twinkies?
Pair them with ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or a fresh green salad to balance the flavors.
Conclusion: Why Texas Twinkies Are a Must-Try
Texas Twinkies are more than just an appetizer—they’re a flavor-packed experience! With their smoky, cheesy, spicy goodness, they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, celebrating game day, or simply craving a bold snack, these jalapeño delights deliver every time.
So, preheat your oven, grab some fresh jalapeños, and get ready to enjoy the irresistible taste of Texas Twinkies!