Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Hatch Chile Peppers

Last August, I stood in the parking lot of a local HEB Grocery store, watching massive drums of Hatch chiles roasting over open flames. The smoky aroma was intoxicating, and I knew I had to capture that magic at home. These bacon-wrapped stuffed Hatch peppers became my go-to way to celebrate the brief but glorious Hatch chile season.

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New Mexico Hatch Green Chile Pepper Season

The magic happens in the layering of flavors and textures. Hatch chiles have a distinctive earthy, slightly sweet flavor that’s completely different from regular green chiles. The cream cheese filling stays creamy while the bacon renders and crisps, creating a protective barrier that keeps the peppers tender. The three cooking methods (grilling, baking, air frying) each bring out different aspects of the dish.

What Are Hatch Chili Peppers?

A Hatch chili is a cousin to the more well-known Anaheim pepper, which was first grown in California. Hatch peppers have a unique flavor and are only grown in the Hatch Valley of New Mexico. These bright green peppers come in many different sizes – most are 4 to 6 inches long, but some get up to over a foot in length. 

Both Texas grocers, Central Market, and H.E.B., ship in tons of peppers during the season, and they roast them in front of the stores. An annual Hatch Chile Festival takes place in the village of Hatch, New Mexico.

How Hot Are Hatch Chilies?

These peppers vary a little in hotness, but on average, they are about three times milder than jalapenos.

Why You Should Try This Stuffed Hatch Chilies Recipe

These bacon-wrapped stuffed Hatch peppers with cream cheese are perfect for any get-together; everyone will love them!

They are wonderfully flavorful, creamy, not too spicy, and simple to make. These amazing green chili peppers are only available during August and September, so after you fall in love with these bright green delectables, mark your calendar so you never miss out!

Stuffed Hatch Peppers – Ingredients You Will Need

Here’s what’s required to make bacon-wrapped stuffed hatch peppers:

For the Peppers:

• Hatch green chiles – Provide the signature earthy, mild heat that’s unique to New Mexico’s Hatch Valley
• Bacon slices – Create a crispy exterior that renders fat to baste the peppers while cooking

For the Filling:

• Cream cheese – Forms the creamy base that balances the pepper’s heat and adds richness
• Sharp cheddar cheese – Adds tangy depth and melts beautifully with the cream cheese
• Worcestershire sauce – Contributes umami depth and enhances the bacon’s savory notes
• Smoked paprika – Amplifies the smoky flavor and adds subtle heat without overwhelming
• Garlic salt – Provides aromatic seasoning that complements both cheese and peppers

How to Make This Stuffed Hatch Peppers Recipe

Making stuffed green chiles is easy to do. Here’s how to go about it:

1. Use a sharp knife to cut the peppers horizontally into two halves.
2. Scrape out the seeds and white parts.

3. Combine the filling ingredients. 

4. Spread the filling mixture on the pepper halves.
5. Wrap a slice of bacon tightly around each half.

6. Cook until the peppers are tender, and the bacon is browned.

Note: There is no need to blister the chiles and remove the skin before stuffing and wrapping.

Grilling Instructions

Cook over moderate heat on a raised rack for about 20 to 25 minutes. Do not place the peppers directly on the fire.

Oven Instructions

Place the peppers on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This will allow them to cook evenly. Bake at 350°F for about 20 to 25 minutes. 

Air Fryer Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 390°F. Air fry for 15 minutes until the pepper is tender and the bacon browned.

Recipe Variations

You can substitute Anaheim peppers if you can’t get these tasty Hatch peppers. This recipe also works well with poblano peppers. It’s easy to customize the filling. Here are a few suggestions:

• For a little more dimension, you could add some caramelized onions.
• Add in some cooked chicken, pork, ground beef, ground turkey, or sausage (a good way to use up leftovers).
• Add 3 to 4 shrimp, depending on the size of the shrimp.

How to Serve Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Hatch Peppers

These stuffed Hatch peppers cream cheese style are perfect as a starter for many meals. Here are some ideas of what to serve with them:

• Avocado Dip or Guacamole: The creamy, cooling effect of avocado is a great contrast to the heat of the peppers.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: The lime’s tang and cilantro’s freshness can balance the peppers’ spiciness well.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: A sweet and smoky complement to the heat of the chiles.
• Black Bean Salad: This provides a hearty, high-protein addition to your meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A lighter, nutritious option that can be flavored with lime and cilantro to match the chiles.
• Chips and Salsa are a classic choice, especially if you’re serving the peppers as part of a larger spread for a party or gathering.

Other Ways to Use Hatch Chilies

These are mild peppers with a wonderful balance of earthy and buttery flavors that melts perfectly into almost anything, so you can use them in various ways. Here are a few ideas:

• They are fantastic simply roasted with a sprinkle of salt.
• Use them in queso, chili relleno, and salsa.
• Check out 10 New Ways to Try Hatch Peppers

How to Store Stuffed Hatch Chilies

Make Ahead: You can prep these up to 48 hours before storing them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. You can also freeze them uncooked. When ready to use, allow them to thaw thoroughly before cooking.

Leftovers: If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheat: Place in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

Can’t find fresh Hatch peppers? Try these jalapeno recipes instead!

You can also adapt these recipes for Hatch or other peppers.

• Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
• Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
• Buffalo Chicken Jalapeno Poppers
• Bacon Wrapped Little Smokie Jalapeno Poppers
• Cheddar Cheese Jalapeno Poppers
• Candied Jalapenos
• Chuy’s Creamy Jalapeno Dip
• Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese
• Wonton Jalapeno Poppers

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Check out my easy appetizer recipes and favorite recipes for summer on CopyKat!