Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn

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

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Delights

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn for gatherings or just for a cozy night in. The combination of spicy jalapenos and sweet corn creates a delightful contrast that everyone seems to enjoy. I like to play around with different cheeses to find the perfect creamy filling that complements the heat of the peppers. This recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also a fun way to spice up classic poppers and impress your friends with your culinary skills. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-13T23:31:14.462Z

When I first experimented with Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn, I was blown away by how well the flavors came together. The sweetness of the corn complements the spicy jalapenos beautifully, creating a symphony of taste that leaves you craving more. I decided to add a hint of garlic and onion powder in the filling, which enhances the overall flavor experience.

A tip I learned along the way is to bake the poppers instead of frying them. Not only does this make them healthier, but it also allows the flavors to meld together seamlessly. You get a satisfying crunch without the extra grease!

Why You'll Love These Poppers
Sweet corn balanced with zesty jalapenos for an explosion of flavor
Creamy cheese filling that offers a rich texture
Perfect for game nights, parties, or as a snack

Perfecting the Heat

When working with jalapenos, the level of heat can vary significantly among individual peppers. For a milder flavor, choose jalapenos that appear pale and smooth. You can also soak the halved peppers in cold water for about 30 minutes to help reduce the heat further before stuffing them. If you enjoy more spice, consider leaving some seeds in the jalapenos during preparation, as they contain a significant amount of the capsaicin that contributes to the pepper's heat.

Monitoring the baking time is crucial to achieving that perfect popper. Remove them from the oven once the jalapenos are tender and the cheese filling is bubbling slightly. This could take anywhere between 15 to 20 minutes, but keep an eye out for a golden-brown top on the cheese, indicating they're done. Overcooking can lead to a soggy texture, so it's worth checking around the 15-minute mark.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

Jalapeno poppers can be prepared in advance, making them an excellent convenience for gatherings. You can stuff the jalapenos a day ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. When ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and pop them in straight from the refrigerator; just extend the baking time by a few extra minutes to ensure they're heated through completely.

If you have any leftover poppers, you can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help keep the jalapenos firm while melting the cheese perfectly without creating a soggy mess.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with the fillings in your jalapeno poppers! For a twist, try incorporating diced bacon or chorizo into the cheese mixture. This not only adds a savory, smoky flavor but also creates a rich texture that complements the creaminess. You can also substitute different cheese varieties, such as pepper jack for an extra kick or mozzarella for a stretchier, richer filling.

Herbs and spices can elevate your poppers even further. Consider mixing in some fresh chopped cilantro, green onions, or even a dash of smoked paprika for added flavor depth. Each of these variations can transform your jalapeno poppers into something uniquely exciting, making them a fun dish to customize for any occasion.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Once you have everything, you're ready to start stuffing!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prep the jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. This step is crucial as it helps to tone down the heat slightly.

Make the filling

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

Stuff the jalapenos

Spoon the filling into each jalapeno half, packing it in generously. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed.

Bake the poppers

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the tops are golden.

Serve and enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These poppers are perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce!

Enjoy your spicy, cheesy poppers!

Pro Tips

Adjust the heat level by leaving some seeds in the jalapenos if you like it spicier, or remove all seeds for a milder version.

Ingredient Insights

The combination of cream cheese, cheddar, and Parmesan provides a rich, creamy filling that complements the jalapenos perfectly. Cream cheese is essential for its smooth texture, while the cheddar adds a nutty flavor. Parmesan contributes a salty bite that rounds out the taste experience. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using Neufchâtel cheese in place of cream cheese, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if you need a vegan version.

Fresh corn enhances the poppers with a natural sweetness and a lovely crunch. If sweet corn isn't in season, frozen corn works just as well; just ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained before mixing. It not only balances the heat from the peppers but adds a pleasing texture contrast that keeps each bite interesting.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your jalapeno poppers with sauces can elevate them even more. A cool dipping sauce like ranch or sour cream can balance the heat and bring out the flavors. For a little more zing, consider a spicy salsa or a drizzle of BBQ sauce. These not only add an extra layer of flavor but also introduce a delightful texture variation when enjoying the poppers.

These poppers are endlessly versatile and can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish with a fresh salad on the side. You might also consider using them in tacos for a delightful crunch or serving them alongside grilled meats for a festive spread at any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, add cooked meat, or include spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a different flavor.

→ Can I freeze stuffed jalapenos?

Absolutely! Just freeze the stuffed jalapenos before baking. When you're ready to cook them, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these poppers?

Creamy ranch, sour cream, or even a spicy salsa would pair nicely with these poppers.