Michigan-made & hickory-smokedShipped nationwideFamily-owned since 2010
Home › Recipes › wild game bacon wrapped poppers
Appetizers

wild game bacon wrapped poppers

MediumPrep · Cook · 30 minutes

wild game bacon wrapped poppers

Ingredients

  • 10–12 fresh jalapeño peppers (halved and seeded)
  • 8–1 oz wild game meat (such as venison tenderloin, backstrap, or elk steak, cut into thin strips or small cubes)
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened; herb and garlic or plain)
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (optional)
  • 10–12 slices regular-thickness bacon (cut in half)
  • Wild game marinade: 1 cup Worcestershire sauce, 1 cup soy sauce, and 1 cup lime juice (or a game-specific marinade like Allegro Game Tame)
  • Seasonings: BBQ rub, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste
Shop the Ingredients

Method

  1. Marinate the Meat: Slice your wild game meat into strips or small cubes. Soak the meat in your marinade for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator to tenderize. Drain well before assembling.
  2. Prep the Peppers: Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise. Scrape out the seeds and white membranes. (Leave a few seeds if you prefer a spicier kick).
  3. Mix the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and a pinch of garlic powder or seasoning.
  4. Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeño half.
  5. Place a piece of marinated wild game meat right on top of the cheese.
  6. Wrap a half-slice of bacon snugly around the pepper and meat. Secure with a soaked toothpick if needed.
  7. Dust the outside lightly with your favorite BBQ rub or seasoning.
  8. Oven or Air Fryer: Bake at 375°F to 400°F for 15 to 25 minutes until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
  9. Smoker or Grill: Smoke or grill indirectly at 275°F to 350°F for 30 to 45 minutes until the bacon renders and crisps up.
  10. Finish (Optional): Brush with a light glaze of maple syrup or barbecue sauce during the final 5–10 minutes of cooking. Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
← All Recipes