Smoked Beef Armadillo Eggs (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Beef Mixture

01 - 1 1/4 pounds Ground Beef, 80/20 mix (80% lean, 20% fat)
02 - 1 1/2 tablespoons Beef rub

→ Cheese Filling

03 - 4 ounces softened cream cheese
04 - 3 ounces shredded cheddar cheese

→ Others

05 - 6 whole jalapeños (2-3 inches in width)
06 - 1 cup Pinot Noir BBQ Sauce

# Instructions:

01 - Prepare smoker targeting 225 - 250 degrees Fahrenheit using oak or fruit wood.
02 - In a large bowl, combine Ground Beef and beef seasoning. Mix thoroughly.
03 - In a separate bowl, mix the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese together.
04 - Cut the stem and top off each jalapeño. Using a narrow sharp knife, remove the seeds, membrane, and ribs to hollow out the jalapeños. Stuff them tightly with the cheese mixture, ensuring there are no air pockets.
05 - Layout the seasoned Ground Beef mixture into a large rectangle and divide into six squares. Press each jalapeño into a square of beef and shape the beef around the pepper to form an 'egg', making sure all sides are covered and any seams are pinched closed.
06 - Place the formed Armadillo Eggs onto the smoker. Smoke for one hour until the internal temperature of the beef reaches 165 - 170 degrees Fahrenheit.
07 - Apply the wine BBQ glaze to the eggs and continue smoking for an additional 10 minutes to set and darken the glaze.
08 - Remove the eggs from the smoker and let rest for 5-10 minutes until cool enough to handle. Serve and enjoy.

# Notes:

01 - If tailgating, pre-make the Armadillo Eggs and store them in a cooler or refrigerator until ready to smoke. The glaze can also be prepared in advance.
02 - Soften cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature for an hour or microwaving in 10-second increments.
03 - To make the wine glaze, combine 1/2 cup of dry red wine and 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce in a pan over medium heat. Stir until bubbling and let cool.