Oh my goodness, let me tell you about Texas Twinkies! These little bites of heaven are jalapenos stuffed with smoked brisket, wrapped in crispy bacon, and grilled to perfection. If you’re anything like me, you know that the combination of spicy, smoky, and savory flavors is simply unbeatable! I remember the first time I made these for a backyard barbecue; everyone couldn’t get enough! The way the smoky brisket mingles with the creamy cheese and the crunch of bacon? Wow! It’s a flavor explosion that just screams Texas. Trust me, once you try making these Texas Twinkies, you’ll never look back. They’re perfect for gatherings, game days, or just a fun night in!
Ingredients for Texas Twinkies Jalapenos Stuffed with Smoked Brisket
Gather these simple yet delicious ingredients to make your Texas Twinkies shine! Each component plays a crucial role in bringing out those bold flavors, so let’s get to it:
- 10 jalapenos – Look for firm, fresh ones; they should have a nice sheen to them.
- 2 cups smoked brisket, shredded – The star of the show! Make sure it’s tender and bursting with smoky goodness.
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened – This adds that creamy texture that balances the spice of the jalapenos.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – I love using sharp cheddar for that extra kick, but feel free to go with your favorite.
- 10 slices of bacon – Because everything’s better with bacon, right? Get the thick-cut for maximum crispiness!
- 1 tablespoon barbecue sauce – Adds a touch of sweetness and tang. Adjust to your taste!
- Salt and pepper to taste – Just a pinch will do; you want to enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
Trust me, you’ll want to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start grilling these tasty treats!
How to Prepare Texas Twinkies Jalapenos Stuffed with Smoked Brisket
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s dive into the fun part—preparing these mouth-watering Texas Twinkies! Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a backyard feast that’ll have everyone asking for more!
Prepping the Jalapenos
First things first, we need to get those jalapenos ready! Start by slicing each jalapeno in half lengthwise. Don’t forget to wear gloves here, trust me, you don’t want that spicy oil on your hands! Once they’re halved, carefully remove the seeds and membranes. This will cut down on the heat a bit, but if you’re feeling bold, leave a few seeds in for a spicy kick! Set your jalapeno halves aside while we whip up the filling.
Making the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine your shredded smoked brisket, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and barbecue sauce. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. This filling is where the magic happens—it’s smoky, cheesy, and just a little tangy! Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. I usually give it a little taste test here; it’s so good, you might find yourself wanting to eat it straight from the bowl!
Stuffing the Jalapenos
Now comes the fun part—stuffing those jalapenos! Take a heaping spoonful of your brisket mixture and fill each jalapeno half generously. Don’t be shy; pack it in there! Once they’re all stuffed, take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each jalapeno. If the bacon doesn’t stay in place, just use a toothpick to secure it. The bacon is going to get all crispy and delicious on the grill, contributing to that amazing flavor!
Grilling Instructions
Alright, let’s fire up the grill! Preheat it to medium heat, and once it’s ready, place your stuffed jalapenos on the grill. I usually let them grill for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you’re looking for that bacon to turn golden brown and crispy. You’ll know they’re done when the cheese is bubbly and everything is looking absolutely irresistible! Flip them halfway through if you want an even crispier finish. When they’re ready, remove them from the grill, let them cool for a moment, and then get ready to dig in!
Tips for Success
Now, before you dive into cooking these Texas Twinkies, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly delicious! Trust me, these little nuggets are worth every bit of effort, and with a few pointers, you’ll be a pro in no time.
- Choose the Right Jalapenos: Look for jalapenos that are firm and have a nice shine. If you want them spicier, go for smaller peppers; larger ones tend to be milder.
- Keep an Eye on the Bacon: Bacon can be tricky! If it’s not getting crispy enough, increase the heat slightly, but be careful not to burn your jalapenos. You want that perfect crunchy texture!
- Adjust the Barbecue Sauce: Everyone has different tastes, so feel free to tweak the amount of barbecue sauce in the filling. A little more can add that extra sweetness if you like it!
- Use Toothpicks Wisely: If your bacon isn’t wrapping securely, don’t hesitate to use toothpicks! Just remember to remove them before serving—nobody wants a surprise when they bite in!
- Let Them Rest: Once you take them off the grill, let your Texas Twinkies cool for a few minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes them easier to handle!
- Serve with Style: I love serving these with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. It adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the smokiness perfectly!
With these tips, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with the ultimate Texas Twinkies experience. Happy grilling!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Please keep in mind that the nutritional information for these Texas Twinkies jalapenos stuffed with smoked brisket can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I strive to provide accurate estimates, the exact values may differ, so it’s always a good idea to double-check if you’re tracking your intake closely. Enjoy these delicious treats without worry, knowing that they’re packed with flavor and made with love!
FAQ About Texas Twinkies Jalapenos Stuffed with Smoked Brisket
Got questions about making these delicious Texas Twinkies? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common questions I get, along with my answers to help you out.
Can I use other types of meat instead of brisket?
Absolutely! While smoked brisket brings that amazing flavor, you can definitely swap it out for pulled pork, chicken, or even a veggie option like mushrooms or beans for a twist. Just make sure whatever you choose is seasoned well!
How do I make these Texas Twinkies spicier?
If you’re a heat lover, keep some seeds in the jalapenos when you’re prepping them. You can also add some spicy sausage to the filling or use a spicier barbecue sauce. There’s no such thing as too spicy when it comes to Texas Twinkies!
Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the jalapenos and stuffing ahead of time, then wrap them in bacon and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill. Just make sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling so they cook evenly.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
If you have any Texas Twinkies left (which is a rarity!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. The bacon won’t be quite as crispy, but they’ll still be delicious!
Can I make these in the oven instead of on the grill?
You bet! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
Why You’ll Love Texas Twinkies Jalapenos Stuffed with Smoked Brisket
- Quick Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up these delicious bites, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings!
- Rich Flavors: The combination of smoky brisket, creamy cheese, and crispy bacon creates an explosion of flavors that’ll have your taste buds dancing.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: These jalapenos are always a hit at parties, barbecues, and game days. Everyone loves them, and they disappear fast!
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or swap in different fillings—there’s no wrong way to make them!
- Gluten-Free Delight: With simple, gluten-free ingredients, these Texas Twinkies are a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
- Satisfying Snack: They’re not just appetizers; they make for a hearty snack or a fun addition to any meal!
Once you try these Texas Twinkies, you’ll see why they’re a staple in my kitchen. Everyone will be asking for the recipe, I promise!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your Texas Twinkies jalapenos stuffed with smoked brisket ready to go, let’s talk about how to take your meal to the next level! These little guys are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with the right sides and dips can really enhance the flavors and make your gathering even more memorable.
- Extra Barbecue Sauce: Always a classic! Set out a small bowl of your favorite barbecue sauce for dipping. The sweetness and tang will complement the smoky flavors perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy coleslaw is a great balance to the rich, savory twinkies. The cool crunch of the slaw cuts through the heat and richness, making for a delightful bite!
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn is another fantastic pairing. Brush it with a bit of lime butter or sprinkle with chili powder for an extra kick!
- Guacamole and Chips: Who doesn’t love guac? Serve some creamy guacamole with tortilla chips on the side for a fun snack option that fits the Tex-Mex theme.
- Beer or Margarita: For drinks, a cold beer or a zesty margarita pairs wonderfully with these spicy treats. The refreshing drink will help cool your palate after each flavorful bite!
With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your friends and family! Enjoy every spicy, cheesy bite of those Texas Twinkies, and happy feasting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you find yourself with any leftover Texas Twinkies (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), you’ll want to store them properly to keep that delicious flavor intact. Here’s how to do it:
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the Texas Twinkies to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze them! Just wrap each Texas Twinkie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 2 months this way.
Now, when it comes to reheating, you want to make sure they’re just as tasty as when they were fresh off the grill:
- Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Texas Twinkies on a baking sheet and heat them for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and the bacon is crispy again. This method really helps to maintain that delicious texture!
- Reheating in the Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can pop them in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds. Just keep in mind that the bacon won’t be as crispy using this method, but they’ll still be tasty!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Texas Twinkies even after the party’s over. So go ahead, savor every last bite!
Print
Texas Twinkies Jalapenos Stuffed with Smoked Brisket Bliss
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Texas Twinkies are jalapenos stuffed with smoked brisket, wrapped in bacon and grilled to perfection.
Ingredients
- 10 jalapenos
- 2 cups smoked brisket, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 10 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon barbecue sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove seeds.
- In a bowl, mix smoked brisket, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, barbecue sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each jalapeno half with the brisket mixture.
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeno with a slice of bacon.
- Secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Grill for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
Notes
- Wear gloves when handling jalapenos.
- Adjust the amount of barbecue sauce for taste.
- Serve with extra barbecue sauce for dipping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jalapeno
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: texas twinkies, jalapenos, smoked brisket, appetizer