Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapeno peppers; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or canned); 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn, especially for gatherings. The spicy kick from the jalapenos perfectly complements the sweet and creamy corn filling, creating a delightful explosion of flavors. It’s a fun dish that never fails to impress my friends and family. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to prepare! Every bite delivers that satisfying crunch combined with a creamy texture that leaves everyone coming back for more. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or game-day snack, these poppers will surely be a hit.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:28:07.481Z

When I first decided to create Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn, I knew I wanted a filling that was a perfect balance of spicy and sweet. Experimenting with different cheeses and spices led me to use cream cheese mixed with fresh corn, and I was thrilled with the results. The combination of textures in every popper is simply irresistible!

One key tip I found while making these is to remove as many seeds and membranes from the jalapenos as possible. This helps reduce the heat, allowing the flavors of the filling to shine through. It makes these poppers accessible for everyone, even those who may shy away from spicy foods!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture packed with sweet corn and savory spices
A perfect blend of heat and flavor in every bite
Easy to customize with your favorite cheeses and spices

      

Mastering the Jalapeno Prep

When preparing jalapenos, it's crucial to remove the seeds and membranes to control the heat level. Depending on your preference for spice, you can leave a few membranes for extra kick. If you're particularly sensitive to heat, wearing gloves while handling the peppers is a good idea, as the oils can linger on your skin and cause irritation.

Cutting the jalapenos lengthwise allows for easier stuffing and ensures that each half is filled evenly. Ensure your knife is sharp, so you can achieve clean cuts without squishing the peppers, which can compromise their structure during baking.

Crafting the Perfect Filling

The combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar not only provides a creamy texture but also creates a rich flavor base that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the corn. For a twist, consider substituting with pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy kick, or use a vegan cream cheese alternative for a dairy-free version.

Mixing the filling until it's just combined will help maintain some texture from the corn while ensuring the other ingredients meld perfectly. Be cautious not to over-mix, as this may lead to a dense filling that can be less enjoyable to bite into.

Baking to Perfection

Achieving the ideal crispy exterior involves a proper coating of breadcrumbs. I recommend using panko breadcrumbs as they provide a lighter, airier crunch compared to standard breadcrumbs. You can also season the breadcrumbs with a pinch of paprika or cayenne for an added flavor dimension.

Baking the poppers until they are golden and bubbling is key to ensuring they're cooked through but not overdone. Keep an eye on them around the 20-minute mark, as oven variances might speed up the process. Look for a crispy exterior with a touch of golden edges, and don’t hesitate to turn on the broiler for the last few minutes if you desire extra crispiness.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn

For the Poppers

12 fresh jalapeno peppers
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup sweet corn (fresh or canned)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs

Make sure to wear gloves while handling jalapenos to protect your hands from the heat.

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Jalapenos

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

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon, fill each jalapeno half generously with the corn filling, ensuring they are packed well.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Dip each stuffed jalapeno into breadcrumbs to coat them evenly for that crispy texture.

Bake

Place the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes until they are golden and bubbling.

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra touch!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add bacon bits or diced bell peppers to the filling for an added layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers are versatile and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, sour cream, or a zesty avocado dip. I like to prepare a simple cilantro-lime crema by mixing sour cream with lime juice and finely chopped cilantro for a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the poppers.

For a festive presentation, arrange them on a platter with fresh herbs and colorful accompaniments, like cherry tomatoes or lime wedges. You can also offer a few different sauces to create a mini tasting experience for your guests.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the poppers in advance by stuffing the jalapenos and coating them with breadcrumbs. Simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a day or two before baking. This makes them an excellent choice for parties, as they can be popped into the oven just before serving.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. They can be reheated in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, ensuring they retain their crispy texture. Alternatively, reheating in an air fryer can give them a nice crunch again.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with the stuffing! You can incorporate other ingredients like cooked chorizo or bacon for a savory twist, or add black beans for a heartier filling. Just keep in mind that additional moisture from these ingredients might necessitate adjusting the cheese or cream cheese amounts to maintain the right consistency.

For an even more exciting flavor palette, consider infusing the filling with different spices or herbs. Adding cumin for a smoky flavor or cilantro for freshness can transform the poppers and give them a unique signature that stands out at any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and stuff the jalapenos, then cover them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I swap for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or even a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different flavor.

→ How can I adjust the spiciness?

For milder poppers, remove all the seeds and membranes. For extra heat, consider adding some finely chopped jalapenos to the filling.

→ Can I grill these instead of baking?

Yes, grilling jalapeno poppers adds a fantastic smoky flavor! Just make sure they are well wrapped in foil to avoid falling through the grill.