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); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn for gatherings or a cozy evening at home. The creamy corn filling, combined with the fiery jalapenos, creates a delicious explosion of flavors that I can't resist. It’s the perfect balance between heat and sweet, and I often find myself sneaking a couple more than I planned! Plus, these poppers are surprisingly easy to prepare, making them a go-to appetizer whenever I want to impress my friends and family.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:55:13.616Z

When I first decided to make these Jalapeno Poppers, I was surprised at how simple it was to create such a delectable dish. I experimented with different fillings, but the sweetness of corn paired with cream cheese felt just right. It gave me a unique twist on traditional recipes and was an instant hit among my friends.

One tip I swear by is to deseed the jalapenos properly. This not only reduces the heat but also allows the corn mixture to shine through. Pair them with a cooling dip, and you've got a dish that's sure to steal the show at any gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The creamy corn filling adds a delightful sweetness
Perfectly balanced heat from the jalapenos
Easy to prepare, great for gatherings

      

Perfecting the Filling

The creamy corn filling is the star of these poppers. I recommend using fresh corn for a sweeter taste, but if you’re short on time, frozen corn works perfectly as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it to avoid excess moisture in your filling. For an extra kick, consider adding some diced jalapeño to the mix; it enhances both the flavor and the heat levels of the filling, balancing beautifully with the creaminess of the cheese.

Mixing the filling requires a light touch; you want everything combined without overworking it, which can make the texture too dense. Aim for a creamy consistency that holds together yet remains fluffy. If you find the filling too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to achieve your desired texture. Don't forget to taste the filling before stuffing; a touch more salt or garlic powder could really elevate those flavors!

Tips for Stuffing

When cutting the jalapeños, I advise using gloves to protect your hands from the oils, which can linger and cause irritation. After removing the seeds and membranes, consider soaking the jalapeño halves in water for about 15 minutes to mellow out their heat slightly, if that’s your preference. Store any leftover seeds for planting your own jalapeño garden next season - they’ll sprout beautifully!

For stuffing, a small spoon or a piping bag works wonderfully to fill each jalapeño half. Make sure to pack the filling generously, as it will slightly shrink when baking. If you have some leftover filling, try a spoonful on top of the breadcrumbs; this gives an extra flavor boost and prevents waste. For a visual cue, look for the filling to be slightly puffed and golden at the edges once baked.

Serving and Storing

Once baked, let your jalapeño poppers cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This short rest allows the filling to set a little and makes handling easier. I love serving them with a side of creamy ranch, but they also pair well with guacamole or a zesty salsa for a refreshing contrast. Present them on a platter with colorful garnishes like fresh herbs or extra jalapeño slices to engage the eyes as much as the palate.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They reheat wonderfully in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which keeps them crispy compared to microwaving. For longer storage, freeze the stuffed jalapeños before baking, and when you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding about 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Jalapenos

Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes carefully.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the corn, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the filling into each halved jalapeno, packing it generously.

Add Breadcrumbs

If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the stuffed jalapenos for added crunch.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the jalapeno skins are tender and the tops are golden.

Serve

Let the poppers cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with a side of ranch or your favorite dipping sauce!

These Jalapeno Poppers are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add cooked bacon bits to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to experiment with the cheeses in the filling. While I recommend cheddar for its sharp flavor, mozzarella or pepper jack can add a delightful stretch or additional spice, respectively. You can even include a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese for a touch of crumbly texture and unique flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try a creamy plant-based cheese substitute in place of the cream cheese.

For those who want to make this recipe vegan, replace cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese, and ensure your shredded cheese is dairy-free as well. Use a mix of beans or lentils to add protein without sacrificing taste, matching the creamy texture while still keeping that lovable popper crunch. These variations keep the dish inclusive and tasty.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up is a breeze. If you’re expecting a crowd, simply double or triple the quantities, keeping the same proportions. Just be mindful of how many jalapeños you can comfortably fit on your baking sheet and make adjustments accordingly. For larger gatherings, consider preparing them in batches; this will help maintain the poppers' crispiness as baking multiple trays simultaneously can lead to uneven cooking.

Conversely, if you’re cooking for one or two, you can halve the recipe easily. Just ensure you adjust baking time slightly since fewer poppers may require less time in the oven. You can even prepare them ahead and freeze them before baking, so whenever cravings hit or friends drop by, you can pop them into the oven and serve hot, savory treats in no time!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the jalapenos and filling a day in advance, then bake them just before serving.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can substitute it with a fresh cheese like ricotta or even a vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option!

→ How spicy are these jalapeno poppers?

They have a mild to medium heat level, especially if you remove the seeds and membranes. Adjust to your taste by leaving some seeds if you prefer more spice.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed jalapenos?

Absolutely! Once stuffed, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.