Blazing Bacon-Jalapeño Fireball Party Smashers
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, blend the crumbled bacon, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, green onions, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until you have a smooth mixture.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter.
- Press this cracker mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish to create a crust.
- Spread the bacon and cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and dive into this explosion of flavors!
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving, presentation is key. Cut the smashers into bite-sized squares and serve on a large platter. You can also garnish with fresh cilantro or additional green onions for a pop of color. Pair them with a cool ranch or sour cream dip to balance the heat. For drinks, a light lager, margarita, or even a chilled iced tea can complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage and reheating tips
If you happen to have leftovers—a rare occurrence—let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave for a quick method, though the oven will keep the crust crispy.
Helpful cooking tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding diced serrano peppers or a dash of smoked paprika.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon for crumbled tempeh or an alternative meat substitute.
- Don’t overmix the filling; you want to retain some texture from the bacon and jalapeños.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? You can experiment with different flavors by incorporating various cheeses like pepper jack for added spiciness or mozzarella for a gooey texture. For a tangy twist, drizzle some barbecue sauce over the top before serving, or add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth of flavor.
Common questions
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and baking will take another 25-30 minutes, making it a quick and delicious option for any gathering.
Can I freeze these party smashers?
Yes! You can freeze them either before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store them in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
What can I serve these with?
They pair wonderfully with a side salad, veggies, or tortilla chips. For drinks, consider serving with light beers, sodas, or refreshing cocktails to balance the spiciness.
Blazing Bacon-Jalapeño Fireball Party Smashers
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, blend the crumbled bacon, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, green onions, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until you have a smooth mixture.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter.
- Press this cracker mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish to create a crust.
- Spread the bacon and cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
