How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Armadillo Eggs

Bacon-Wrapped Armadillo Eggs, a popular Texas BBQ staple, have gained fame for their flavorful combination of cheese-stuffed jalapeños wrapped in seasoned pork sausage and bacon. This unique dish, though devoid of actual eggs, offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes, especially when cooked with wood-fired techniques and a touch of BBQ sauce.

Ingredients

To recreate this flavorful dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 14 slices of thick-sliced bacon (divided)
• 12 medium jalapeño peppers
• 4 ounces of cream cheese (softened)
• 4 ounces of pepper Jack cheese (shredded)
• 2 pounds of ground pork
• 2 tablespoons of Traeger Spicy Fajita Rub
• 1/2 cup of Traeger Texas Spicy BBQ Sauce (optional)

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the Bacon: Start by cooking 2 pieces of bacon in a small skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooled, crumble or chop them into small pieces.
2. Prepare the Jalapeños: Cut off the stem ends of the jalapeños and remove the seeds and veins inside using a small spoon or paring knife.
3. Make the Filling: Combine the softened cream cheese, shredded pepper Jack cheese, and crumbled bacon in a small bowl. Mix well and fill the jalapeños with this mixture.
4. Season the Pork: In a medium bowl, gently combine the ground pork with Traeger Fajita rub. Divide the pork into 12 equal portions, about 2 ½ ounces each.
5. Shape the Eggs: Flatten each portion of pork into an oval shape larger than the jalapeño. Place the stuffed jalapeño on the pork and wrap it entirely, ensuring the filling is covered.
6. Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each pork-covered jalapeño with a slice of bacon, spiraling from one end to the other. It's fine if the entire egg is not covered. Refrigerate the assembled eggs for up to 12 hours if needed.
7. Cook on the Grill: Preheat the Traeger grill to 275°F with the lid closed. Place the armadillo eggs on the grill grates, cook for 45 minutes, then flip and cook for another 45 minutes. Increase the grill temperature to 375°F for the last 10 minutes or until the bacon is crispy. Baste with BBQ sauce if desired and let it set on the grill for about 5 minutes.
8. Serve: Remove the armadillo eggs from the grill, let them cool slightly, and enjoy.

Enhancing the Experience

For an enhanced flavor experience, consider using hickory pellets for a rich, smoky taste. The combination of wood-fired grilling and the spicy, cheesy filling wrapped in crispy bacon makes these Bacon-Wrapped Armadillo Eggs a standout dish for any BBQ gathering.

Conclusion

Bacon-Wrapped Armadillo Eggs are a testament to the creativity and bold flavors of Texas BBQ. This dish combines the heat of jalapeños, the creaminess of cheese, and the savory goodness of pork and bacon, all elevated by a touch of smoke and spice. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a BBQ enthusiast, this recipe is sure to impress and delight your guests.