6 strips of Bacon, (can be substituted with panko breadcrumbs)
6 oz. Cream Cheese
1 Link of Mild Italian Sausage
2 tbsp. Chives, (chopped)
2 tbsp. Parsley, (chopped)
Zest of 1 Lemon
1/4 tsp. Salt
1/4 tsp. Black Pepper
1-2 tbsp. Honey ((optional))
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400F. Line a baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Remove the sausage from its casing, then cook it like you would ground meat. Allow it to cool to at least room temperature.
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cooked ground sausage, cream cheese, chopped chives and parsley, lemon zest, salt and black pepper. Set aside.
Carefully slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise, then use a small spoon to scoop out their insides. Generously fill each jalapeno half with the cream cheese mixture.
Cut the bacon strips in half, then wrap each stuffed jalapeno with a half slice of bacon. Place the wrapped jalapeno seam-side down on the prepared pan.
Lightly brush the bacon with a thin coat of honey. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the bacon is fully cooked and golden. Allow the jalapeno poppers to cool for at least 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!