The allure of smoky, spicy, and cheesy jalapeo poppers is undeniable, especially when they come off a charcoal grill. But how long to cook jalapeo poppers on a charcoal grill? Let's dive into this delightful topic and make sure you nail your poppers every time.

Setting Up Your Charcoal Grill
Before we answer how long to cook jalapeo poppers, we need to ensure your grill is set up correctly. Using a charcoal grill gives the poppers that distinctive smoky flavor. To set up your grill, follow these steps:
- Ensure a clean grill grate to prevent sticking.
- Place charcoal in a chimney starter for an even burn.
- Arrange the charcoal for direct and indirect heat zones.

The Perfect Jalapeo Poppers Recipe
While there are endless variations of jalapeo poppers, here's a basic yet delicious recipe to get you started:
Ingredients
- 10 fresh jalapeos
- 1 cup of cream cheese
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 10 slices of bacon
Instructions
- Cut the jalapeos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
- Mix cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese in a bowl.
- Fill each jalapeo half with the cheese mixture.
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeo with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.

Grilling the Jalapeo Poppers: Time and Technique
Now, to the meat of the matter: how long to cook jalapeo poppers on a charcoal grill. Here are the steps to perfection:
Precise Cooking Time
Cooking Temperature: Maintain a temperature of about 375F (190C) on your charcoal grill.
Cooking Duration: Grill the poppers for 20-25 minutes over indirect heat. This ensures the bacon crisps up nicely without burning the cheese filling.
Pro tip: Use a grill thermometer to keep an eye on the internal temperature.

Finishing Touches and Serving Suggestions
Once they are grilled to perfection, remove the poppers and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them as appetizers with your favorite dipping sauces. They're perfect for any barbecue gathering!
FAQs
Can I use an oven instead of a grill?
Yes, you can cook jalapeo poppers in an oven at 375F for about 20-25 minutes, but you will miss out on the smoky flavor that a charcoal grill provides.
How do I make the poppers less spicy?
Removing the seeds and inner membranes of the jalapeos will significantly reduce their spiciness. Additionally, consider using a mild cheese filling.
Can I prep jalapeo poppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the poppers and store them in the fridge for up to a day before grilling. This makes them perfect for party planning.
Related Articles
For more grilling tips and delicious recipes, check out these articles:
For more on grilling with charcoal, visit Girl Carnivore.
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