Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn for gatherings or weekend snacks. The combination of the spicy jalapenos with the sweet burst of corn creates a perfect balance that surprises everyone. We make these pops not only because they’re incredibly delicious, but also because they’re super easy to whip up. With each bite, you get a pleasing crunch from the breadcrumbs and a wonderful creamy filling that keeps you coming back for more. Trust me, these will be the hit of your next party!

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:31:15.395Z

Making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn has become one of my favorite activities, especially when I want to impress friends or family. I remember the first time I tried using corn in the filling; it added a certain sweetness that balanced the heat from the jalapenos perfectly. It was a game changer and ever since then, I never go back to the classic version.

One key tip I found essential is to select jalapenos that are firm, as they hold up better during cooking and provide a nice crunch. If you want to control the heat level, you can adjust how many seeds you include in the filling. Enjoy crafting these delightful snacks – your taste buds will thank you!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful contrast of spicy jalapenos and sweet corn filling
Easily customizable to suit your flavor preferences
Perfect for game day or as an appetizer at gatherings

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for your poppers, look for firm, smooth peppers that are bright green and free of blemishes. The size is important too; larger jalapenos not only provide ample space for stuffing but also have a thicker flesh, allowing for a better crunch. Avoid jalapenos that are overly soft or wrinkled as they tend to have a weakened structure, which can lead to sogginess once baked.

If you prefer a milder flavor profile, consider using poblano peppers instead. They have a similar shape and can hold the filling well but offer a gentler heat. Alternatively, if you’re looking for an extra kick, try using serrano peppers for a spicier version. Just keep in mind that the spice level will increase significantly!

Creating the Perfect Filling

The filling for these jalapeno poppers is truly the star of the dish. Cream cheese is essential as it provides a smooth base that blends beautifully with the corn and cheddar. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute part of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, maintaining a creamy texture with fewer calories. Don't forget to add the spices—they elevate the flavor and create a savory balance with the sweet corn!

For an added layer of flavor, consider mixing in diced cooked bacon or crumbled sausage into the filling. This will add a wonderful savory element that beautifully complements the sweetness of the corn. If you want to keep it vegetarian, fresh herbs like cilantro or chives can brighten the filling and give it a fresh twist. Just remember to adjust the cheese accordingly so that the filling maintains a cohesive consistency.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your jalapeno poppers are baked and cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warm. This helps to retain their crunchiness and ensures the filling doesn't dry out. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed jalapenos. Just assemble them and place them in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove excess air. They can be baked directly from the freezer, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Serving these poppers as an appetizer is a classic choice, but they also work wonderfully as a unique side dish or snack during movie nights. Pair them with a creamy dip, like ranch or cilantro-lime sauce, for added flavor. For a fun twist, consider serving them on a platter topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start making your Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn.

Ingredients

12 large jalapenos
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs
Olive oil spray

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start preparing these delicious poppers!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create mouthwatering Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn.

Prepare the Jalapenos

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

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the corn filling, pressing gently to ensure they are well packed.

Coat and Bake

Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the stuffed jalapenos, patting them down slightly. Lightly spray with olive oil for a crispy finish, then bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Let the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding crumbled bacon or diced bell peppers to the filling. Adjust the spiciness by leaving some seeds in the jalapenos.

Tips for Perfectly Baked Poppers

To achieve that golden and crispy layer on top of your jalapeno poppers, be generous with the breadcrumbs but make sure they adhere well to the filling. Press them down slightly, and when you spray them with olive oil, ensure it's evenly distributed. If you're aiming for an even browning, you might want to rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time.

Monitor the baking time closely; the poppers are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. If at any point they start to brown too quickly, simply cover them lightly with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the filling to cook through completely.

Customizing Your Jalapeno Poppers

One of the best aspects of jalapeno poppers is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations; pepper jack cheese can add a delightful kick while goat cheese can bring a tangy flavor profile. Additionally, for those who enjoy a sweet and spicy combination, try incorporating some diced pineapple or a hint of honey into the filling for an unexpected burst of flavor.

You can also vary the breadcrumb coating. For a more robust flavor, consider using seasoned breadcrumbs or adding finely chopped herbs like oregano or thyme to the mixture. This will enhance the overall taste and can complement the heat from the jalapenos beautifully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your filling is too runny, it may result in soggy poppers after baking. To remedy this, try adding an additional tablespoon of cream cheese or some more breadcrumbs to assist in firming up the mixture. Always remember to fully drain frozen corn before adding it to the filling to avoid excess moisture.

Conversely, if the filling seems too thick and hard to pack into the jalapenos, you can incorporate a small amount of milk or yogurt to loosen it up. This will help in achieving a smooth and creamy consistency that fills the peppers nicely without spilling out.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Cream cheese pairs well, but you can mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for extra flavor.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure your cheese choices are rennet-free if strict vegetarianism is needed.

→ Can I prepare these poppers in advance?

Yes, you can prep them a few hours ahead and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these poppers?

Creamy ranch dressing, guacamole, or a spicy sriracha dip complement these poppers nicely!