Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or canned); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn for gatherings or a cozy night in. The combination of spicy jalapenos with a creamy and sweet corn filling creates the perfect balance of flavors. Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste that makes it hard to stop at just one. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to prepare and bake up beautifully with a crispy topping. Whether you're a fan of appetizers or simply love bold flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:16:19.668Z

Making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn has become a go-to recipe for me during the summer barbecues. The blend of sweet corn and spicy jalapenos not only excites the palate but also keeps the crowd excited. I love how using fresh corn really elevates the flavor compared to canned options.

One tip I live by is to choose jalapenos that are firm and have a deep green color, as they tend to have the best flavor and crunch. Plus, baking instead of frying cuts down the grease while keeping that satisfying crunch that everyone loves. Trust me, your guests will be raving about these!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The sweet corn filling perfectly balances the heat of the jalapenos.
The crispy topping adds delightful texture to each bite.
Easy to prepare and perfect for both casual and festive occasions.

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

Selecting the right jalapenos is crucial for achieving the desired heat level and flavor profile in your Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn. Look for large, firm jalapenos with a vibrant green color. The size allows for ample stuffing and ensures a tender texture after baking. If you're sensitive to spice, opt for peppers that feel smooth and less wrinkled, as these tend to be milder. Remember, the heat level can vary, so taste a small piece from the tip before committing to your batch.

If you want to tone down the heat even further, you can use mini sweet peppers instead of jalapenos. They provide a similar shape and presentation while being much milder. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a mix of peppers—like poblanos or Anaheim peppers—for a unique flavor combination with different heat levels.

Perfecting the Filling

The corn filling for your jalapeno poppers not only adds a delightful sweetness but also contributes to the creamy texture that complements the spiciness of the jalapenos. Using fresh corn adds brightness and a more intense flavor, but canned corn works well when fresh isn’t available. Be sure to drain any excess liquid from canned corn to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.

For a little extra flavor depth, consider adding spices such as smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne powder to the cream cheese mixture. You can also replace the cheddar with pepper jack cheese for an additional kick of heat. Experimenting with different herbs, like cilantro or chives, can also enhance the filling and make it even more vibrant.

Baking and Serving Tips

Baking your stuffed jalapenos is a balancing act—too much heat can leave them underdone, and high heat can scorch the tops. A temperature of 375°F (190°C) is ideal for achieving that golden brown topping while ensuring the jalapenos cook through. Keep an eye on them after the 12-minute mark; they should be tender to the touch and the breadcrumbs should be a nice golden brown.

Once baked, allow the poppers to cool for a few minutes before serving. This time gives the filling a chance to set and makes them easier to handle. These poppers make excellent party appetizers, and serving them with a dipping sauce like ranch or cilantro-lime crema complements the flavors beautifully. You can also pair them with a refreshing drink like a margarita for an added festive touch.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start preparing your Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 large jalapenos
1 cup sweet corn (fresh or canned)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

Here are the steps to create your delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Make the Corn Filling

In a bowl, mix together the sweet corn, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the corn mixture generously into each jalapeno half, packing it in well. Top with breadcrumbs and lightly drizzle with olive oil for extra crunch.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the tops are golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some chopped bacon or diced jalapeno seeds to the stuffing mixture. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the jalapeno poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating them can be done in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they retain their crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it may make the poppers soggy and diminish their pleasant crunch.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed jalapeno halves before baking. Simply arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, bake them from frozen, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Alternatives and Variations

Feel free to get creative with the stuffing! For a heartier version, add cooked bacon bits or sausage to the filling for a savory twist. You can also incorporate other vegetables like diced red bell pepper or green onions for added color and flavor. Adjusting the cheese blend can also yield exciting results; try feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy difference.

For a fun twist on presentation, consider wrapping the stuffed jalapenos with prosciutto or bacon before baking. This adds a salty crunch that enhances the overall taste. Just be mindful to monitor the baking time, as the meat needs to be fully cooked while avoiding over-browning the jalapenos.

SPICY IN THE AIR

While jalapenos provide a classic choice, other spicy peppers can elevate the dish. Try using serrano or Fresno peppers for more heat. Each pepper variety will alter the flavor profile, allowing for creative liberties that may change how your guests perceive the familiar popper. Don’t hesitate to mix and match to find your ultimate spicy blend!

Remember that everyone’s palate varies. If you’re serving a group, consider having a mix of fully stuffed and lightly stuffed options, stuffing half the batch without the seeds for a more approachable dish. This way, you can cater to a variety of spice tolerances while still enjoying the essence of the recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these poppers in advance?

Yes, you can stuff the jalapenos a few hours ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until you are ready to bake.

→ How can I make these poppers spicier?

To increase the heat, leave some seeds in the jalapenos or add finely chopped fresh jalapenos to the filling.

→ Can I freeze leftover Jalapeno Poppers?

Absolutely! They freeze well, just ensure they're wrapped tightly before placing them in the freezer. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What dipping sauce goes well with these poppers?

I love to serve them with ranch or a creamy cilantro lime dip, but a spicy salsa also makes a fantastic pairing!