Baked Jalapeno Popper Roll Ups Recipe

 

If you love the irresistible combo of spicy jalapenos, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese, then you are going to adore these Baked Jalapeno Popper Roll Ups! They take all the best flavors of classic jalapeno poppers and transform them into a fun, handheld roll that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just craving a tasty snack, these roll ups deliver a satisfying bite of heat, richness, and crunch that everyone will reach for over and over again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Baked Jalapeno Popper Roll Ups come together with a handful of simple, trusty ingredients you likely have around or can easily find. Each one plays a crucial role: creamy cheese adds luscious flavor, bacon brings that smoky crispness, and jalapenos pack a punch of fresh heat that wakes up your taste buds.

• Flour tortillas (4, 10 inch): The soft, pliable canvas that holds all the delicious fillings and crisps beautifully when baked.
• Jalapenos (2, 4″ long): Fresh and spicy, these get diced to spread just the right amount of heat without overpowering.
• Bacon (7 slices or 1/2 cup): Crispy and smoky, bacon is essential for adding savory crunch and depth.
• Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Sharp and melty, cheddar binds everything together with gooey goodness.
• Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Rich and smooth, cream cheese blends with spices to create a luscious filling base.
• Cumin (1/4 tsp + 1/8 tsp): Adds subtle earthiness that complements the heat and cheese.
• Chili powder (1/4 tsp + 1/8 tsp): Enhances the smoky spice flavor without overwhelming the palate.
• Cilantro (optional): Fresh, bright herbaceous notes for a pop of color and flavor when serving.
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Used to brush the rolls, ensuring a golden, crispy exterior.

How to Make Baked Jalapeno Popper Roll Ups

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Begin by heating your oven to 400° F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This will be the home for your roll ups while they bake to melty, bubbly perfection.

Step 2: Chop and Cook the Bacon

Stack your bacon slices on a cutting board and slice them into 1/4 inch pieces. A handy tip is to freeze the bacon first; this makes slicing much easier and less messy. Then, in a hot skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon pieces stirring frequently until they turn crispy and golden brown. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess grease—it’s this crispy texture that makes the roll ups extra special.

Step 3: Dice the Jalapenos

Remove the stems from your jalapenos, slice them lengthwise, and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat if preferred. Slice into long strips, stack, then dice into small pieces. These flavorful chunks will evenly spread throughout the roll ups for that signature spicy kick.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with 1/4 teaspoon of cumin and 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder. Stir well to blend the spices into the cream cheese, giving it an extra layer of warm, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the jalapenos and bacon.

Step 5: Assemble the Rolls

Lay each tortilla flat on your workspace, then spread about 2 heaping tablespoons of the spiced cream cheese evenly over it. Next, sprinkle on approximately 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, then scatter the crispy bacon and diced jalapenos over the top, leaving about a 1/2 inch border around the edges. This helps the roll stay tight and sealed.

Step 6: Roll and Arrange

Carefully roll each tortilla up tightly, creating a long cylinder packed with cheesy, spicy goodness. Place the rolls seam side down on your prepared baking sheet to prevent them from unraveling during the bake.

Step 7: Make the Chili Oil and Brush the Rolls

Mix together the olive oil, 1/8 teaspoon cumin, and 1/8 teaspoon chili powder in a small bowl to create a flavorful chili oil. Brush this mixture generously over the outside of the rolls. This not only adds lovely flavor but also helps the tortillas brown beautifully in the oven.

Step 8: Bake and Slice

Pop the rolls into the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the outsides are lightly golden brown. If the rolls start to brown too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil for the last five minutes to keep them from burning. Remove from the oven and let cool on a cutting board for about five minutes to firm up before slicing. Using a serrated knife, cut into 1/2 to 3/4 inch slices and arrange on a serving platter. Optionally, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for a pop of color and brightness.

How to Serve Baked Jalapeno Popper Roll Ups

Garnishes

One of the joys of Baked Jalapeno Popper Roll Ups is how easily you can customize the presentation. Freshly chopped cilantro adds a vibrant herbal note that cuts through the richness. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of tangy ranch dressing can provide a cooling contrast to the spicy jalapenos. For extra flair, sprinkle a bit of smoked paprika or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving.

Side Dishes

These roll ups shine as an appetizer or snack, but they also make a fantastic accompaniment to light sides. Consider pairing them with a crisp green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette to balance the indulgence. A side of fresh guacamole or pico de gallo amps up the freshness and keeps things lively on the palate. For game day, crunchy veggie sticks or a bowl of black bean salsa complements these savory bites beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, serve these roll ups on a wooden charcuterie board alongside bowls of spicy dips, pickled jalapenos, and assorted olives. You could also thread the sliced roll ups onto skewers for easy grab-and-go party snacks. Another fun idea is to layer the slices on a platter in a spiral or fan shape, making them irresistible to dive into. Whatever presentation you choose, the Baked Jalapeno Popper Roll Ups will be the star of the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Baked Jalapeno Popper Roll Ups, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days. The flavors even deepen a bit after resting, making for a delicious next-day snack or quick lunch option.

Freezing

You can freeze these roll ups before baking for ultimate convenience. Simply assemble and wrap the rolled tortillas tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, place the roll ups on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated 350° F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through and the outside is slightly crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep that delightful crisp exterior intact, but if you’re in a hurry, a quick zap on medium power works in a pinch.

FAQs

Can I make these roll ups vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or extra jalapenos for savory depth. You could also sprinkle in some roasted red peppers or use vegetarian bacon alternatives for a similar crunch and flavor.

How spicy are these Baked Jalapeno Popper Roll Ups?

The spice level is moderate and depends on how much of the jalapeno seeds and membranes you include. Removing the seeds significantly reduces the heat. It’s an approachable spice that gives a pleasant kick without overwhelming most palates.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with pepper jack for extra spice, mozzarella for melty stretchiness, or a blend of cheeses to customize the flavor to your liking.

Is there a way to make these gluten-free?

Definitely. Swap out the flour tortillas for your favorite gluten-free tortillas or flatbreads. Just keep an eye on baking times as some gluten-free varieties can crisp faster.

What’s the best way to slice the rolls without squishing them?

Use a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion. Let the roll rest for a few minutes after baking to firm up, then cut slowly to keep the shapes neat and prevent the fillings from spilling out.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Jalapeno Popper Roll Ups are an absolute joy to make and devour. With their perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and crispy elements, they’re sure to become a favorite snack or party appetizer in your recipe arsenal. So grab your ingredients, gather some friends, and get ready to enjoy a truly addictive bite of comfort and spice. Trust me, once you try these roll ups, they’ll be a go-to treat you’ll want to share again and again!

 

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