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 fresh corn kernels; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn for parties or as a snack. The combination of spicy jalapenos and sweet, creamy corn is always a hit with my friends and family. I enjoy the thrill of tasting something spicy yet comforting at the same time. The best part is how easy they are to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a batch that satisfies everyone's cravings. Whether I’m grilling them or baking, they never last long on the table!

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:52:13.164Z

When I first set out to make Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn, I had no idea the explosion of flavors they would create. The creamy mixture blends perfectly with the slight heat of the jalapeno, and it even includes a hint of sharp cheese that elevates each bite. After several attempts, I found that using fresh corn, rather than canned, offers a delightful crunch that enhances the overall experience.

One of my favorite tips is to adjust the heat level based on your preference. You can deseed the jalapenos for milder poppers or leave some seeds in for an extra kick. I find that serving them with a drizzle of ranch dressing on the side really complements the flavors and provides a cooling contrast that is truly delicious.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy burst of flavor balanced by sweet corn
Crispy exterior with a creamy filling
Simple ingredients combined for maximum taste

      

Choosing Your Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos, opt for firm peppers with a smooth skin, which indicates freshness. I prefer using large jalapenos for stuffing as they provide ample space for the filling. If you enjoy a more intense heat, consider leaving some of the seeds and membranes inside, as they contain much of the pepper's spiciness. It's also helpful to taste a small piece of the pepper before using it; this will give you an idea of its heat level and help you balance flavors accordingly.

If you want to tone down the heat for guests who are sensitive to spice, look for milder pepper varieties like Anaheim or Poblano. These peppers can create a similar texture without overwhelming heat. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor profile will change slightly, as these milder peppers are generally sweeter.

Mastering the Filling

The filling is the heart of these jalapeno poppers, and ensuring the right consistency is key. You want the cream cheese to be softened adequately; otherwise, it will be difficult to mix with other ingredients. Microwave the cream cheese for about 20-30 seconds if it's too stiff—just be careful not to overheat it, or it may become too runny. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when stuffed into the jalapenos yet creamy and smooth to ensure every bite is delightful.

Don't shy away from customizing the filling! Adding cooked bacon bits or chopped green onions can elevate the taste, while spices like cumin or smoked paprika can introduce an extra depth of flavor. Remember, whatever you choose to mix in should complement the sweet corn rather than overpower it, so balance is essential in flavoring.

Serving and Storage Tips

These jalapeno poppers are best served warm, straight from the oven, maintaining their crispy texture and creamy filling. You can serve them on a platter with a side of cool ranch or sour cream dip to balance the heat. Garnishing with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of lime juice can brighten the flavors, adding a refreshing contrast to the richness of the filling.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through, ensuring the texture remains crispy. You can also freeze the unbaked, stuffed jalapenos for up to three months; just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

12 large jalapenos
1 cup fresh corn kernels
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

How to Make Jalapeno Poppers

Prepare the Jalapenos

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

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the filling into each jalapeno half. Be generous, piling it high!

Add Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the stuffed jalapenos.

Bake

Place the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the topping is golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon bits to the filling, or experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your jalapeno poppers are too watery after baking, it's likely because the corn kernels were not adequately drained or were previously frozen. Before mixing the corn into the filling, make sure to drain any excess liquid thoroughly. You can also roast the corn in a dry pan for a few minutes to remove moisture before adding it to the filling, enhancing its sweetness and flavor.

Another common issue is the filling leaking out during baking. To prevent this, be sure to pack the filling tightly into the jalapeno halves. If you have excess filling, consider using it to top additional veggies or filling a small ramekin. Also, make sure the jalapenos are cut evenly to help with even cooking.

Variations to Try

Consider experimenting with different cheeses in your filling! Adding cream cheese blended with feta or pepper jack for a spicier kick can introduce new layers of flavor. For a twist on the traditional, try mixing in some sun-dried tomatoes or olives to infuse Mediterranean notes into your poppers. This combination pairs excellently with a zesty tomato sauce for dipping.

For a health-conscious version, swap out the cream cheese for Greek yogurt, which can offer a tangy flavor while reducing calories. You might also use quinoa or brown rice instead of corn for a heartier filling that can introduce a more complex texture. Just remember to adjust your seasoning accordingly, as these swaps can alter the overall flavor.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

If you plan to serve these poppers at a larger gathering, it's easy to scale the recipe. Simply multiply the ingredients and ensure you're using a large enough baking sheet or multiple sheets to accommodate the extra jalapenos. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary slightly with additional oven load—check for tenderness and a golden topping.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, you can halve the ingredients without much trouble. To prevent waste, consider making just a few poppers and saving the filling to enjoy in a different dish, like nachos or stuffed peppers, within a few days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed jalapenos a day in advance, just cover them and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, sour cream, or even a homemade salsa for dipping.

→ Are these poppers spicy even after removing seeds?

Yes, jalapenos can still have a bit of heat, but removing the seeds and membranes significantly reduces their spiciness.

→ Can I bake them instead of frying?

Definitely! Baking is a great option to keep them a bit healthier while still achieving that delicious crunch.