Golden fried wonton triangles filled with creamy jalapeño-laced cheese, topped with crispy bacon and fresh chives – this irresistible appetizer is the perfect balance of heat, crunch, and indulgent flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, these wontons bring excitement to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These wontons are a delicious fusion of creamy, spicy, and crispy. The warm filling combines cream cheese, cheddar, and jalapeño for a bold yet balanced flavor, while the fried wrappers provide an addictive crunch. Topped with smoky bacon and a touch of fresh chive, they offer a satisfying contrast of textures and tastes. They’re easy to prepare ahead of time and make a show-stopping snack for game days, parties, or casual gatherings.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

24 wonton wrappers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 jalapeño, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions
Oil for frying

directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, jalapeño, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Place wonton wrappers on a clean surface. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of filling into the center of each wrapper.
3. Fold each wrapper into a triangle, pressing the edges firmly to seal. Moisten the edges with water if needed to help them stick.
4. Heat oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry wontons in batches for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove and drain on paper towels.
7. While still hot, top each wonton with chopped bacon and a sprinkle of chives or green onions.
8. Serve warm, optionally with ranch dressing or sour cream on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 wontons, serving 6–8 people as an appetizer.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Make it spicier: Leave in the jalapeño seeds or add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to the filling.
• Add herbs: Try chopped cilantro or parsley in the filling for a fresh twist.
• Use a different cheese: Pepper jack, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack can be substituted for cheddar.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the bacon or replace with vegetarian bacon alternatives.
• Try air frying: Cook in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through for a lighter version.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store cooled wontons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until crispy. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy.
• Freezing: Assemble uncooked wontons and freeze on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra 1–2 minutes to the cook time.

FAQs

Can I make these wontons ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for longer storage.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown and crisp.

What dipping sauces go well with these wontons?

Ranch, sour cream, chipotle mayo, or sweet chili sauce are all excellent choices.

How do I keep the wontons sealed during frying?

Press the edges firmly and moisten with a little water if needed to help seal the wrapper securely.

Can I use store-bought wonton wrappers?

Absolutely. Most supermarkets carry them in the refrigerated produce or Asian foods section.

Are these suitable for kids?

Yes, especially if you remove the jalapeño seeds or reduce the amount for a milder flavor.

Can I substitute the jalapeño with another pepper?

Yes, you can use poblano, serrano (for more heat), or bell pepper (for no heat).

How do I prevent the wontons from getting soggy?

Serve immediately after frying and avoid stacking them. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

What’s the best oil for frying wontons?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil.

Can I make these in a large batch for a party?

Yes, these are ideal for entertaining. Fry in batches and keep warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven until ready to serve.

Conclusion

Crispy Bacon Jalapeño Cream Cheese Wontons are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that delivers bold flavor in every bite. With their creamy, spicy filling and crunchy golden shell, they offer a playful and indulgent twist on traditional party snacks. Easy to customize and even easier to devour, this recipe is sure to become a staple at your next gathering.

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