Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp pepper; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn for gatherings. The combination of spicy jalapenos with a creamy, flavorful corn filling creates an irresistible snack that everyone enjoys. I find that the crunch of the jalapeno pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the filling, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether it’s for game day or a casual get-together, these poppers always impress my friends and family, and they’re surprisingly easy to make!

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-13T17:52:15.995Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers, I was hooked by how versatile they are. I wanted to create a unique filling that wasn’t just cream cheese, so I decided to add corn for sweetness and texture. It worked out beautifully, and I’ve been making this recipe ever since. The balance of spice from the jalapeno and the creamy filling is simply perfect!

I’ve learned that baking the poppers instead of frying them gives a great crisp without the extra oil. Plus, this method allows the flavors to meld together in the oven, maximizing the deliciousness in every mouthful!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy jalapenos with a sweet and creamy corn filling
Baked for a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor
Perfectly crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside

      

Understanding the Jalapeno

Choosing the right jalapenos is crucial for your poppers' flavor and heat level. Look for firm, glossy peppers with a vibrant green color. Larger jalapenos may have a milder taste, while smaller ones can pack a spicier punch. If you prefer less heat, soak your prepared jalapenos in water for about 30 minutes before stuffing them, which can help tone down their spiciness.

When handling jalapenos, remember to wear gloves to avoid irritation from the oils, especially if you’re sensitive. When removing the seeds and membranes, ensure you're thorough, as these are where most of the heat resides. A small spoon or a paring knife can make this task easier, allowing you to scoop out the insides without damaging the pepper walls.

Perfecting the Filling

The filling for these poppers can be customized based on your taste. Consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or chives for a burst of freshness. For an additional flavor kick, add cooked bacon or crumbled sausage. If you're looking to keep it vegetarian, sautéed onions or peppers mixed into the filling offer a delightful twist. Remember to mix until the filling is smooth and creamy, ensuring every bite is well-seasoned.

To achieve the right consistency, let the cream cheese soften to room temperature before mixing. This makes it easier to blend with the corn and prevents clumping. If your filling feels too thick, a splash of milk or a little sour cream can help achieve a more spreadable texture, making stuffing the jalapenos simpler and more efficient.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Once baked, these jalapeno poppers are best enjoyed immediately while hot and crispy, but they can be made ahead for convenience. Bake them in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they regain their crunch. If reheating in a microwave, place a paper towel under them to absorb moisture.

For serving, consider a zesty dipping sauce to complement the poppers. A simple mixture of sour cream with lime juice and cilantro can elevate the flavors beautifully. Alternatively, a sweet chili sauce offers a delightful contrast to the spicy jalapenos. Present them arranged neatly on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, and watch them disappear at your next gathering!

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the filling into each jalapeno half, packing it in generously.

Add Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the stuffed jalapenos for added crunch.

Bake

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

Serve

Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add diced jalapeno seeds into the filling. You can also experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for more flavor.

Ingredient Highlights

Corn adds a lovely sweetness and texture to these poppers, balancing the heat of the jalapenos. Whether you use fresh corn off the cob or canned varieties, the key is to ensure the corn is drained well and dispersed evenly throughout the filling. If using frozen corn, thaw and pat it dry to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to soggy poppers.

Cream cheese is essential for achieving that rich, creamy filling. However, if you're looking for a lighter option, consider using low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute for a tangy twist. These alternatives still provide the necessary smooth texture while cutting down on calories, making your poppers a tad healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your jalapeno poppers are unevenly cooked, check the size and uniformity of your jalapenos before baking. Consistent sizes will ensure even cooking. If you find the tops aren't browning as quickly as anticipated, you can broil them for the last couple of minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

In case your filling spills out during baking, ensure you're stuffing the poppers generously but not overfilling them. A small mound over the top is fine, but if it spills over, it may lead to a mess on the baking sheet. Using a parchment-lined baking sheet can help with cleaning up and prevent sticking, making your cooking experience smoother.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. To double the amount, simply multiply your ingredient quantities by two, but be aware of your baking space; you might need to bake them in batches if your sheet pan gets crowded. If you are preparing for a crowd, consider mixing and matching fillings, allowing your guests to enjoy a variety of flavors and spice levels.

If you want to make fewer poppers, you can easily halve the recipe. Just ensure to keep an eye on the baking time, as smaller quantities may cook a bit faster. Adjust the breadcrumb topping according to the amount of filling you have; you might find that less is more, as too thick a layer can overshadow the flavors of the stuffing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the jalapenos and filling a day in advance, then assemble and bake them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese can be good alternatives if you're looking for a healthier or dairy-free option.

→ Are these spicy?

The spice level will depend on the type of jalapenos used. If you're sensitive to spice, consider using milder peppers or removing more seeds.

→ Can I freeze these poppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed jalapenos before baking. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.