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 pieces
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 diced red onion; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love creating fun appetizers, and these Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn have become a favorite in our household. With a balance of spicy jalapenos and sweet corn, they make for a perfect party snack or a weekend treat. Plus, the creamy filling is a delightful surprise with each bite. Whether you’re hosting friends or just indulging in a quiet night, these poppers are sure to impress. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be coming back for more!

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:25:15.477Z

Making these Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn has been a delightful journey in the kitchen. I've experimented with different fillings, but this combination has won me over—it's sweet, spicy, and creamy all at once. The corn adds a unique sweetness that counteracts the heat from the jalapenos, creating a perfect balance that everyone loves.

One tip I’ve picked up is to choose jalapenos that are firm and have a smooth skin. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures they hold up well during cooking. Plus, a sprinkle of cheese on top takes the poppers to another level of deliciousness. It's all about those details!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        A perfect blend of spicy and sweet flavors.
Creamy and comforting filling that satisfies the palate.
Fun and interactive appetizer that brings people together.

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Combining spicy jalapenos with sweet corn creates a delightful contrast that works beautifully in this recipe. The heat from the jalapenos is tempered by the creaminess of the cheese and the sweetness of the corn. If you're worried about the heat, choose milder jalapenos or adjust the filling by including more corn or cream cheese. Remember, the subtle sweetness from the corn not only balances the spice but also adds texture for a satisfying bite.

Pairing flavors is essential when creating poppers. The smoked paprika in the filling infuses a rich, smoky flavor that complements the jalapenos perfectly. Don't shy away from experimenting with other spices, such as cumin or chili powder, to tailor the taste to your preferences. Each ingredient plays its role, and the red onion adds a nice crunch and a bite that supports the overall complexity of the dish.

Essential Steps for Successful Poppers

When preparing the jalapenos, be thorough in removing the seeds and membranes, as they hold most of the heat. For added safety, consider wearing gloves during this process to prevent any irritation. After preheating the oven, lining your baking sheet with parchment paper is crucial; it helps prevent sticking and simplifies cleanup. As a tip, placing the jalapeno halves cut-side up ensures the filling remains intact while baking and allows for even cooking.

Baking is a critical phase where timing is paramount. Keep an eye on the poppers as they approach the 15-minute mark; golden edges and bubbling cheese signal they are ready. If you prefer a more pronounced browning, you can switch to broil for the last minute, but watch them closely to prevent burning. Allow these poppers to cool slightly before serving, as the filling will be very hot and can be difficult to enjoy right out of the oven.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make 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 diced red onion
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

These simple ingredients will bring your poppers to life!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps for making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to lessen the heat. Set aside.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the corn, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, red onion, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and seasoning. Mix until well integrated.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the filling generously into each jalapeno half. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart.

Bake

Spray or brush the poppers with cooking spray or olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers!

Enjoy these poppers fresh from the oven!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, try adding bacon bits to the filling or sprinkling some chopped herbs on top before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to serve these Jalapeno Poppers at a gathering, you can prepare the filling a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store the mixture in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to cook, simply stuff the jalapenos and bake them fresh for maximum flavor. This approach saves time and allows you to enjoy your party without stress.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed jalapenos before baking. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they're heated thoroughly. This way, you always have a batch of delicious poppers on hand!

Serving Suggestions

These Jalapeno Poppers make a fantastic appetizer, but they also shine as part of a game day spread. Pair them with a cooling dip, like sour cream mixed with lime juice and cilantro, to balance the heat. Guests can customize their experience by choosing how much dip to add, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the dish.

For a twist on traditional serving, consider presenting the poppers on a bed of lettuce as a fresh garnish. This not only elevates the dish visually but also adds a refreshing crunch with each bite. You can also serve them alongside mini corn tortillas, allowing guests to create their own corn-filled bites, enhancing the fun and interactive nature of this appetizer.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers spicy?

Yes! You can leave some seeds in the jalapenos or add extra chili powder to the filling for more heat.

→ Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations such as mozzarella or pepper jack.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for later!

→ What do I serve with these poppers?

They pair wonderfully with a sour cream dip, guacamole, or salsa for added flavor.