Bacon-Wrapped Armadillo Eggs
Bacon-wrapped armadillo eggs are a delicious, smoky, and cheesy appetizer that's perfect for BBQs, game days, and family gatherings. These jalapeño poppers are stuffed with a creamy cheese mixture, wrapped in sausage, and enveloped in crispy bacon.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 1 hour hr
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal
- 6 large jalapeños
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 lb ground breakfast sausage or spicy sausage for extra heat
- 12 slices of bacon
- BBQ rub optional
- BBQ sauce optional, for glazing
Preheat & Prep:If using a grill, preheat it to 250°F (120°C) for indirect cooking.If using an oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C).Prepare the Jalapeños:Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.Set aside the jalapeño halves. Make the Cheese Filling:In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.Mix until smooth.Stuff the Jalapeños:Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, packing it in tightly. Wrap in Sausage:Take a portion of the ground sausage and flatten it in your hand.Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half completely in sausage, forming an egg shape.Wrap with Bacon:Each sausage-covered jalapeño should be wrapped with a slice of bacon, securing the ends underneath or using toothpicks if necessary. Season & Cook:Optionally, sprinkle BBQ rub over the bacon-wrapped armadillo eggs.Place them on the grill (indirect heat) or on a baking sheet lined with foil if using the oven.Smoking or Baking:Grill method: Cook at 250°F for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.Oven method: Bake at 375°F for 30-40 minutes, then broil for 5 minutes to crisp the bacon. Optional Glaze:If using BBQ sauce, brush it on during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a sticky, caramelized finish.Serve & Enjoy:Let them cool slightly before serving.Serve with ranch dressing or extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 38g
Cooking Tips:
- For extra smoky flavor, use a wood pellet or charcoal grill with hickory or mesquite wood chips.
- Want less heat? Use milder peppers like mini sweet peppers instead of jalapeños.
- Make it spicier by adding chopped jalapeños to the cheese filling or using hot sausage.
- Ensure crispy bacon by placing them under the broiler for a few minutes if they aren’t crisp enough.
Keyword Appetizer, Easy Recipe, Grilling, Keto Friendly, Party Food, Spicy Food