Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 jalapeno peppers; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

When I first decided to make jalapeno poppers stuffed with corn, I was excited to combine heat and sweetness in one bite. The creamy filling, mixed with fresh corn, creates a delightful contrast to the spicy jalapenos. This recipe has become a go-to for gatherings, as it brings a fun twist to traditional poppers. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. If you love a mix of flavors and textures, you're definitely in for a treat with this dish.

Created by

Natalie Warren

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:22:12.393Z

Making jalapeno poppers stuffed with corn is always an adventure for me in the kitchen. The balance of spicy jalapenos with the sweet crunch of corn is a flavor explosion that never fails to impress. When cooking them, I discovered that roasting the corn intensifies its sweetness and brings a nice caramelization that pairs beautifully with the heat of the peppers.

I love to serve these poppers with a drizzle of homemade ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor. One tip I learned is to soak the jalapenos in water for a bit before baking, which helps to mellow their heat slightly and ensures a perfect bite every time!

        Why You Will Love These Poppers
        Spicy and sweet flavor combination that excites the palate
Creamy, cheesy filling that pairs perfectly with the crunchy popper exterior
Quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for parties

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

Selecting the perfect jalapenos is crucial for making a well-balanced popper. Look for firm jalapenos with smooth skin, avoiding any that have blemishes or wrinkles. The size can also affect the stuffing capability; medium-sized peppers work best as they offer a good balance of flesh to heat. If you prefer a milder taste, you can opt for Anaheim peppers, which have a similar shape but are much less spicy.

To truly enjoy the flavors of your stuffed poppers, it's important to consider the level of heat. If you like a bit of kick, keep some seeds in the jalapenos while removing most for a milder version. You might also want to taste a small piece of the pepper before preparation; this way, you get a sense of how spicy it is and can adjust the seasoning of your filling accordingly.

Customizing Your Filling

The filling for these jalapeno poppers is versatile, allowing you to incorporate various ingredients according to your taste. For example, adding diced cooked bacon or sausage can introduce a savory element that complements the sweetness of the corn. If you're looking to make these poppers vegetarian, consider adding diced bell peppers or black beans for an extra flavor boost while maintaining the dish's hearty texture.

For a creamy variation, consider incorporating different cheeses such as pepper jack for an added spicy kick or goat cheese for a tangy creaminess. If you're trying to cut back on calories or dairy, using a plant-based cream cheese can work well without sacrificing texture. Just make sure that whatever substitute you choose retains a similar consistency to spread easily into the jalapenos.

Serving and Storage Recommendations

These jalapeno poppers are best served hot and fresh from the oven, showcasing their creamy filling and crisp texture. You can garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a drizzle of ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor. If you want to serve them as appetizers, try presenting them on a platter with dipping sauces like spicy aioli or salsa to enhance the overall experience.

For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the stuffed jalapenos a day in advance and store them in the fridge before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pop them in the oven to reheat at 375°F (190°C) for about 25–30 minutes, or until heated through and the tops are golden. This method retains the delicious flavors and allows for easy party prep.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start preparing your jalapeno poppers:

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

12 jalapeno peppers
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Make sure all ingredients are prepped and ready for the next steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious jalapeno poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds if you want a milder flavor. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, corn, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the corn mixture generously into each jalapeno half. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunchy texture.

Bake

Bake the stuffed jalapenos in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden and bubbly.

Allow the jalapeno poppers to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some cooked bacon bits into the stuffing or drizzling with hot sauce when serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your poppers aren't cooking evenly, ensure that they're placed directly on a baking sheet without overlapping. This allows for consistent heat distribution and browning. A good tip is to turn the baking sheet halfway through cooking, which helps achieve that perfect golden color on all sides. If you notice them browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the top with foil to prevent burning while allowing them to cook through.

Another common issue can be the filling leaking out of the jalapenos during baking. To reduce this, ensure that the cream cheese is sufficiently softened before mixing, allowing for a creamier texture that holds together better. If your filling is too runny, consider adding more breadcrumbs or even an egg to bind it, helping to maintain the structure of the filling.

Scaling Up for Larger Gatherings

If you're planning to host a larger gathering, scaling up this recipe is straightforward! Simply multiply the ingredients according to how many poppers you want to prepare. Keep in mind that the baking time might need adjustment; add an extra 5-10 minutes if you're baking a larger batch, as they may need a bit more time to heat through thoroughly.

It's also a great idea to diversify the flavors by creating different fillings in batches. For instance, make some with bacon, some with jalapeno cheddar, and others with a spicy BBQ twist. Presentation is key; consider arranging them in groups based on their fillings for a more inviting display on your party table.

Freezing and Reheating Tips

If you want to prepare these jalapeno poppers ahead of time for later use, freezing is an excellent option. After you stuff the jalapenos, lay them flat on a baking sheet in the freezer until they are firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can keep in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat them, bake them straight from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

For reheating leftover poppers, the oven remains the best choice to maintain their crispy texture. Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm and crispy again; microwave reheating can lead to soggy results, which is why this method is recommended.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

→ How can I make them less spicy?

To lessen the heat, remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapeno peppers before stuffing them.

→ Can I freeze these poppers?

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

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese dressing, or your favorite hot sauce.