Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos, halved and seeded; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn because they bring a delightful burst of flavor and spice that’s perfect for any gathering. The creamy corn filling balances the heat of the jalapenos beautifully, making them a crowd-pleaser at parties. By roasting the peppers, I find that they develop an irresistible smoky undertone, which elevates the dish further. Each bite is satisfying, and I'm always thrilled to see how much my friends enjoy them. Whether as an appetizer or a snack, these poppers never disappoint.

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T18:43:18.346Z

When I first ventured into the world of stuffed jalapenos, I quickly realized how versatile they could be. One of my favorite combinations involves sweet corn mixed with a touch of cream cheese and spices. I love to experiment with various cheeses to find the perfect melt and flavor complement. This method not only gives a kick from the jalapenos but also a lovely sweetness from the corn that everyone enjoys.

After many rounds of testing, I found that roasting the jalapenos enhances their flavor immensely and softens their heat just enough to make them enjoyable without overwhelming the palate. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top brings a nice crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Trust me, these poppers will vanish in no time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A spicy kick balanced by sweet corn and creamy cheese
Easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings
Versatile filling options for personalization

      

Perfecting Your Jalapeno Poppers

One of the key elements to perfecting jalapeno poppers lies in the preparation of the peppers themselves. After halving and seeding your jalapenos, consider briefly soaking them in a mixture of vinegar and water. This not only cleans the surface but can also mellow out their fiery heat, making them more approachable for guests who might shy away from too much spice. This soaking step typically only needs about 10 minutes, which fits easily into your prep time.

When it comes to the filling, it's essential to ensure everything is blended smoothly. I recommend using a hand mixer or food processor for the cream cheese and corn mixture. This technique helps to create a fluffy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy breadcrumb topping. If you're looking for additional flavor, adding some cooked bacon bits or finely chopped green onions can truly enhance the taste while also providing a delightful crunch.

Baking Tips for Crispy Perfection

For the best results, ensure that your oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C) before placing the jalapenos inside. An oven thermometer can be a great tool to confirm your temperature, as an under-heated oven might lead to soggy poppers. Bake them for 25 minutes, but keep an eye on them in the last few minutes; they should emerge golden brown with bubbling cheese. If you find they aren’t browning to your liking, a quick broil for 1-2 minutes can add that last crispy touch.

After baking, let your jalapeno poppers cool for a few minutes before serving. This short resting period allows the filling to set slightly, ensuring that the creamy goodness stays inside when you bite in. Serve these poppers with a side of ranch or cilantro-lime dip for an added flavor contrast that complements both the heat and creaminess of the dish.

Variations and Make-Ahead Options

There are endless variations you can explore with jalapeno poppers. Try substituting the cheddar cheese with pepper jack for extra kick or incorporate diced bell peppers for a hint of sweetness. If you want a vegetarian twist, consider adding black beans or quinoa to the filling for added texture and protein. Each modification can change the dish while still keeping the essence of a stuffed jalapeno intact.

If you’d like to prepare these poppers in advance, simply stuff the jalapenos and place them on the baking sheet, then cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove them from the fridge and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before placing them in the oven. This extra care will provide optimal cooking results, keeping your poppers deliciously fresh!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your poppers delicious:

Ingredients

12 large jalapenos, halved and seeded
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your jalapeno poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat. Set aside.

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, fill each jalapeno half with the corn mixture, pressing it down slightly to fit more filling.

Top with Breadcrumbs

Drizzle the stuffed jalapenos with olive oil and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top to add a crunchy texture.

Bake

Place the jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the poppers are heated through and the tops are golden brown.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon bits to the filling or a dash of hot sauce for an added kick.

Storing and Freezing

For any leftovers, jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) for the best texture. Microwaving can lead to a soggy result, so it’s best to stick to the oven method for optimal crispy goodness.

If you're looking to freeze them, assemble the stuffed poppers on a tray and flash freeze them for about an hour. Once solid, transfer the poppers to a freezer-safe container or bag. They'll keep nicely for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the original bake time.

Exploring Flavor Profiles

To switch things up, consider incorporating spices into your cream cheese mixture. Smoky paprika, chili powder, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or chives before serving can add a refreshing note that perfectly complements the richness of the cheese and corn filling.

If you desire an even bolder flavor, marinating the jalapenos in lime juice and zest for a couple of hours before stuffing can also enhance the dish significantly. This citrusy addition can play well with the creamy and spicy notes, giving your guests a surprise layer of flavor that they'll love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and stuff the jalapenos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use ricotta or Greek yogurt for a lighter option, though the texture will differ slightly.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed jalapenos?

Absolutely! You can freeze them uncooked and bake straight from the freezer, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ Are these poppers spicy?

The spice level largely depends on the type of jalapenos used. If you prefer them less spicy, make sure to remove all seeds and membranes.