Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or canned if unavailable); 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Bacon bits for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn because they perfectly blend heat and sweetness in every bite. When I first experimented with this recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by how the creaminess of the corn complemented the spice of the jalapenos. Each popper becomes a little explosion of flavor, making them an irresistible snack for any gathering. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to prepare with just a few ingredients. I often serve these as an appetizer, and they always disappear quickly!

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:55:11.878Z

In my culinary adventures, I discovered that stuffing jalapenos with corn creates a beautiful contrast of flavors. The sweetness of the corn calms the heat from the jalapenos, making it appealing even for those who are cautious about spice levels. What really amazed me during the first attempt was how versatile the mixture turned out to be; I even added cheese for an extra creamy texture, which everyone loved!

I recommend using fresh corn if possible, as it brings a wonderful sweetness and crunch. Additionally, feel free to play around with spices in the filling to tailor the heat to your preference. These poppers can be baked or grilled, offering an option for every cooking method, and they’re always a hit at gatherings, sparking joy from the very first bite!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The creamy corn filling perfectly balances the spicy jalapeno kick.
Simple to make, making them a crowd-pleaser for all occasions.
A delightful way to enjoy fresh ingredients during summer gatherings.

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When it comes to making Jalapeno Poppers, selecting the right jalapenos is essential for achieving the desired balance of heat. Larger jalapenos tend to be milder, making them excellent candidates for stuffing. Look for peppers that are firm and shiny, which indicates freshness. If you're sensitive to spice, consider using fewer jalapenos or opting for another variety like Anaheim peppers, which have a similar texture but are considerably milder.

If you enjoy a spicier kick, keep the seeds and membranes intact. This part of the pepper contains most of its heat. However, don’t worry if you accidentally make them too spicy; serving them with a cooling dip, like ranch or sour cream, will help temper the heat.

Perfecting the Filling

The creamy texture of the corn filling is what makes these poppers so delightful. When mixing your ingredients, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature; this allows it to blend smoothly with the cheddar and corn without lumps. You can also experiment by adding additional spices like smoked paprika or cumin to elevate the filling flavor. If you prefer a little sweetness, toss in some finely chopped red bell pepper for color and added crunch.

To make your filling even more lush, consider incorporating a scoop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. This not only enhances creaminess but also helps to balance the overall flavors. If you're aiming to reduce calories, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or yogurt as a substitute.

Baking to Perfection

Baking the poppers requires careful attention to ensure they come out perfectly cooked. At 375°F (190°C), allow them to bake for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end; you want the jalapenos to be tender but not mushy. The filling should be bubbly and slightly golden on top, which indicates it’s ready to come out of the oven.

For an extra crispy topping, broil the poppers for a few additional minutes. Just remember to watch them closely, as they can go from perfectly charred to burnt very quickly. Let them sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps the filling set a bit, making them easier to handle when serving.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Jalapeno Poppers Ingredients

12 large jalapenos
1 cup fresh corn kernels (or canned if unavailable)
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Bacon bits for topping (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are prepared before cooking!

Instructions

Let's get cooking!

Prepare Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder taste.

Mix Filling

In a bowl, combine the corn, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Stuff Jalapenos

Using a spoon, fill each halved jalapeno with the corn mixture. If desired, sprinkle bacon bits on top of the filling.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the filling is bubbly.

Serve hot and enjoy your delicious poppers!

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the spice level by leaving some seeds in the jalapenos. You can also experiment with different cheeses in the filling for added flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Jalapeno Poppers can be prepared in advance, making them a convenient option for parties or gatherings. After stuffing the jalapenos, arrange them on a baking sheet and cover them tightly with plastic wrap. You can refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. If you prefer to freeze them, place the stuffed poppers on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.

When ready to bake frozen poppers, there's no need to thaw them. Simply bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to allow for even heating.

Serving Suggestions

These poppers make a fantastic appetizer or snack, but there are many ways to present them. Consider serving with a variety of dipping sauces, such as guacamole, salsa, or a cool ranch dressing to enhance the overall flavor experience. I often accompany these poppers with a fresh side salad to balance the richness of the dish.

For a fun twist, you can also serve them on a taco platter, allowing guests to make mini tacos with the poppers as the star ingredient. Just provide fresh tortillas and a selection of toppings like diced tomatoes, cilantro, and avocado for a crowd-pleasing treat.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with your filling! Adding cooked chorizo or shredded chicken can transform these poppers into a hearty snack. For a vegetarian option, consider adding black beans and diced red onion, which pairs beautifully with the sweet corn. Experimenting with different cheeses, like pepper jack for a fiery twist, can also offer exciting variations.

For a healthier approach, try baking them in an air fryer for a crispy texture with less oil. Adjust the temperature to around 375°F (190°C) and check them after 10-15 minutes; this method may yield quicker results depending on your air fryer model.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works well too! Just make sure to thaw and drain it before mixing.

→ How can I make these poppers spicier?

You can add diced jalapeno seeds to the filling or use hotter pepper varieties.

→ Can these be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and fill the jalapenos, then refrigerate them. Bake when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, guacamole, or a zesty salsa!