Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large 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; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil, for drizzling

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn for gatherings or just a cozy night in. The combination of spicy jalapenos with sweet corn creates a delicious balance that I can’t resist. I’ve found that baking them instead of frying keeps them crispy while cutting down on the grease. Each bite is bursting with flavor, and I always make sure to have a sour cream dip on the side for that extra creaminess. Trust me, these poppers quickly become a favorite among my family and friends!

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-13T18:40:16.911Z

While experimenting with different stuffed jalapeno recipes, I decided to add corn for a pleasant sweetness that complements the heat. I loved how the corn provides a nice texture contrast and makes each bite more enjoyable. My family couldn’t get enough of them when I served them during our last movie night!

One tip I found helpful is to scoop out the jalapeno seeds and membranes carefully to control the spiciness. If you prefer a bit more heat, you can leave some seeds in. Play around with the amount of corn and cheese until you find your perfect balance!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfectly balanced flavors of spicy jalapeno and sweet corn
Baked for a healthier twist on a classic appetizer
Great for parties or as a savory snack

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for your poppers, look for firm, bright green peppers with smooth skin. The size matters; larger peppers provide more stuffing space, but ensure they aren't overly ripe, which can lead to a bitter taste. If you prefer less heat, opt for peppers that are slightly lighter in color or test a small slice to gauge their spice level before committing them to your dish.

If you're concerned about the heat, consider removing more of the seeds and membranes, as this is where much of the spice is concentrated. Alternatively, you could swap in milder peppers, like Anaheim or poblano, for a gentler experience while still enjoying the delightful stuffing.

Perfecting the Filling

The balance of creaminess and crunch in the filling is key to a great jalapeno popper. Using a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar adds a rich, smooth texture, while the Parmesan contributes a savory nuttiness. Ensure that your cream cheese is softened to mix easily; this will help avoid lumps and create a cohesive filling that spreads evenly in the jalapenos.

Feel free to customize the filling by adding fresh herbs like cilantro or diced green onions to elevate the flavor. For a smokier variation, consider adding crumbled bacon or diced smoked sausage. This allows you to experiment with flavors while keeping the core filling intact.

Baking Tips for Crispy Results

To achieve a crispy texture while baking the jalapeno poppers, make sure they are evenly spaced on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around each pepper, promoting even cooking and browning. Drizzling olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also encourages that desirable golden color on the tops. Consider broiling them for the last couple of minutes for an extra crispy finish; just watch closely to avoid burning.

Once baked, let the poppers cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the filling to set, making it easier to handle and eat without spilling out. They can be served alongside a dipping sauce like ranch or a zesty salsa for added flavor contrast.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create these delightful poppers:

Ingredients

12 large 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
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions

Follow these steps to create mouthwatering jalapeno poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

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

Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the corn, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese and corn mixture generously into each jalapeno half. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top to help them crisp up while baking.

Bake

Bake the stuffed jalapenos for 25 minutes or until they are golden and bubbly. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

Try adding some crumbled bacon to the filling for an extra layer of flavor!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store your baked jalapeno poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep them crispy, avoid stacking them too tightly. When it comes time to reheat, popping them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes will help restore their crispness. You can also use an air fryer at a similar temperature for a quick reheating method that maintains texture.

For longer storage, these jalapeno poppers can also be frozen before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to cook them, there's no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to your baking time.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers make a fantastic appetizer but can also be served as a fun main dish alongside a light salad. To elevate your party spread, consider serving them with a variety of dips—guacamole, sour cream, or a tangy salsa verde complement the spicy poppers perfectly.

For a themed gathering, you could pair them with drinks like margaritas or cold beers, enhancing the flavors of your savory treats. If you’d like to make this dish vegetarian, switch out the cheddar for a plant-based cheese alternative to cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. If you decide to double the batch, ensure you have enough baking sheets and space in your oven to cook them all at once. You may need to bake in batches; just keep an eye on the cooking time as larger quantities can slightly alter baking dynamics.

For smaller efforts, you can also halve the recipe; just be mindful when choosing jalapenos, as they often come in packs of 6 or 12. You can adapt the filling measurements accordingly without compromising the texture or flavor, keeping the joy of jalapeno poppers within reach!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen jalapenos?

Yes, but fresh jalapenos provide the best texture and flavor.

→ How can I make them spicier?

Leave some seeds in the jalapenos or add a dash of hot sauce to your filling.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day ahead and bake them just before serving.

→ What can I serve with the jalapeno poppers?

They pair wonderfully with sour cream, ranch dressing, or guacamole.