Go Back
Halved jalapeños filled with a creamy bacon and cheese mixture, baked until golden and topped with chopped herbs

Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Mac and Cheese Bites

If indulgence had a mascot, these Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Mac and Cheese Bites would be it.
Creamy, cheesy macaroni is nestled into spicy jalapeño halves and wrapped in smoky bacon before being baked or air-fried to crispy perfection.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 12 bites
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 190
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup elbow macaroni (dry)
  • 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • ¼ cup whole milk
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 6-8 large jalapeños, halved and seeded
  • 12-16 bacon strips (depending on pepper size)
  • salt and pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

Equipment

  • Saucepan (for cheese mixture)
  • Medium pot (for boiling pasta)
  • Baking sheet with wire rack or air fryer
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Small spoon (for scooping jalapeños)
  • Toothpicks (optional, for securing bacon)
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Cook the Macaroni
    Boil 1 cup elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
    Elbow macaroni is being checked for doneness with a black spoon over a pot of boiling water
  2. Make the Cheese Mixture
    In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt 1 tbsp butter. Stir in 4 oz cream cheese and ¼ cup milk until smooth.
    Add 1½ cups shredded cheddar, stirring until melted. Mix in the cooled macaroni, then refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to thicken.
    Shredded cheddar cheese is being added to a glass mixing bowl on a wooden cutting board
  3. Prep the Jalapeños
    Cut 6–8 large jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes. Pat them dry with paper towels.
  4. Fill and Wrap
    Spoon the mac and cheese into each jalapeño half. Wrap each with 1 strip of bacon (secure with toothpicks if needed).
  5. Cook Until Crispy
    Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 22–28 minutes on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
    Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–14 minutes in a single layer.
    Let cool 5 minutes before serving.

Video

Notes

Cooking Tips

  • Cheese too runny? Let the mac mixture cool more before stuffing.
  • Too spicy? Remove all jalapeño ribs or use mini bell peppers.
  • Need more crisp? Bake on a wire rack or broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
  • Add a twist: Stir in hot sauce, garlic powder, or smoked paprika to the cheese sauce.