Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn

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

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making these Jalapeno Poppers stuffed with corn for gatherings and family get-togethers. The combination of the spicy jalapenos with the creamy, sweet corn filling creates an irresistible treat. It’s one of those recipes that always gets rave reviews, and I enjoy experimenting with the spices to make them unique. The crispy exterior adds the perfect crunch, making them not only delicious but also fun to eat. I can’t wait for you to try this delightful recipe that blends heat with sweet flavors beautifully!

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:10:20.132Z

When I first decided to try making Jalapeno Poppers stuffed with corn, I was amazed at how well the flavors complemented each other. The creaminess of the corn filling offsets the heat of the jalapenos perfectly. After experimenting a few times, I discovered that roasting the corn beforehand adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish from good to outstanding.

One key tip that I've learned is not to remove all the seeds from the jalapenos. This way, you still get a nice hint of spice without overwhelming your palate. The combination of flavors is so satisfying, and it's definitely a crowd-pleaser!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy corn filling that balances the spiciness of jalapenos
Crunchy exterior that provides a delightful texture
Perfect for parties or a cozy night in

      

Perfecting the Filling

The filling for these jalapeno poppers is quite versatile, allowing for various adjustments based on your taste preference. For a creamier texture, consider substituting half of the cream cheese with ricotta or mascarpone. This will not only add a richer flavor but also enhance the mouthfeel. If you want a more vibrant color, adding some diced red or yellow bell peppers to the mixture can contribute both visually and taste-wise.

Another key to a successful filling is ensuring that all ingredients are at room temperature, especially the cream cheese. This makes mixing easier and ensures a smoother filling that spreads well into the jalapenos. If you’re short on time, you can microwave the cream cheese for about 15 seconds to soften it quickly. The goal is to achieve a consistent blend without lumps, which can affect the final uniformity of the poppers.

Baking Tips for Optimal Crunch

Achieving the perfect crunch on the outside of your jalapeno poppers starts with the breadcrumbs. Opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones for an airy, crisp texture. If you want an extra layer of flavor, try toasting the breadcrumbs lightly in a pan with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt before sprinkling them on the stuffed jalapenos. This step takes just a few minutes but can elevate the dish significantly.

Make sure to monitor the baking closely in the last few minutes. Depending on your oven, they can go from perfectly golden to overdone quite quickly. Look for a golden-brown color on top and soft jalapenos that yield slightly when pressed. If you're unsure, you can use a fork to prick one; if it easily pierces, they’re ready. Keeping an eye on the time can make a huge difference.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

12 large jalapenos
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to adjust the number of jalapenos based on your gathering size!

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place them on a baking sheet.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the corn, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the corn mixture into each jalapeno half, packing it tightly. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of each stuffed jalapeno.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the tops are golden brown.

Enjoy these spicy poppers as an appetizer or a snack!

Pro Tips

For extra heat, leave some seeds in the jalapenos. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for the filling.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers can be a delightful standalone appetizer, but they pair wonderfully with dipping sauces. A zesty ranch or creamy avocado dip complements the spiciness of the jalapenos beautifully. You could even whip up a quick cilantro-lime dipping sauce by blending avocado, Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. This adds a refreshing contrast to the heat.

For a more complete meal, consider serving the poppers alongside some grilled meats or a fresh salad. They make an excellent side dish for barbecUES or casual dinner parties. I often present them on a large platter with an array of colorful garnishes like sliced limes, cilantro sprigs, or even edible flowers for a festive touch.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great aspects of this recipe is that you can prepare the jalapeno poppers in advance. Stuff and assemble them, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This is especially handy for prepping ahead of a party, ensuring that you can spend more time with your guests rather than in the kitchen.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore some crispiness. You can also freeze unbaked poppers for up to three months; just remember to thaw them in the fridge before baking as usual.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed jalapenos in advance and refrigerate them. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Consider adding diced jalapeno seeds into the filling or incorporating spicy cheese.

→ What can I do with leftover filling?

You can use it as a dip with tortilla chips or spread it on crackers for a delicious snack.

→ Are there any vegetarian alternatives?

Absolutely! You can substitute the cheese with vegan cheese or omit it entirely for a lighter version.