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 sweet corn (canned or frozen); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Bacon bits (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love these Jalapeno Poppers stuffed with Corn! The combination of spicy jalapenos and sweet corn creates a delightful contrast that's hard to resist. When I first made these poppers, I was amazed at how quickly they disappeared at the party. They are incredibly simple to prepare and offer a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether as an appetizer or a snack for game day, these poppers are always a hit with friends and family. Plus, they are a fun way to enjoy jalapenos without overwhelming heat!

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-01-13T19:34:14.438Z

When I decided to make these Jalapeno Poppers, I knew I wanted to add a unique twist. Instead of traditional cheese, I opted for corn for a sweeter flavor that balances the heat. The flavor combination turned out better than I imagined!

I also found that grilling them adds an amazing smokiness that enhances every bite. Don’t forget to adjust the jalapeno size based on your spice tolerance; larger ones are often milder. I learned that letting them cool slightly before serving makes them less of a burn and more of a treat!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy jalapenos complemented by sweet corn
Simple ingredients with a quick prep time
Versatile for any occasion, from snacks to parties

      

Jalapeno Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right jalapenos is key to the flavor of these poppers. Look for firm, glossy peppers, as a good sign of freshness. Sizing matters too: larger jalapenos are easier to stuff and provide a nice bite without being overwhelmingly spicy. When cutting, be careful to remove the seeds and membranes thoroughly, as this step significantly reduces the heat while allowing the sweetness of the corn to shine through.

After slicing the jalapenos, consider soaking them in a mixture of water and vinegar for about 15 minutes if you want to further mellow the heat. This technique also adds a slight tang, balancing the richness of the cream cheese and cheddar. Dry them well before stuffing to ensure your filling adheres nicely and doesn’t become watery.

Tips for the Filling

The filling is where you can really get creative. For those who like a spicier kick, adding finely chopped jalapeno seeds or other spicy peppers can elevate the heat level while still allowing the sweetness of the corn to come through. Be sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for a smoother mixture; this will make it easier to blend with the other ingredients and help achieve a creamy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the crunchy jalapenos.

For a vegan alternative, swap the cream cheese and cheddar with plant-based options, ensuring they are dairy-free and suitable for your dietary preferences. You can use silken tofu blended with nutritional yeast for a creamy, cheesy flavor that pairs beautifully with the corn and spices. This keeps the spirit of the dish while accommodating dietary restrictions.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers are best served warm, with the cheese still gooey and bubbly. If you're preparing them for a gathering, consider serving them with a side of ranch or avocado dip that complements the spicy-sweet profile of the poppers. Fresh cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top can also add a pop of color and freshness.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed jalapenos prior to baking; just wrap them tightly and store in freezer bags. When ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Bacon bits (optional, for topping)

Mix all the ingredients well before stuffing the jalapenos.

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. This reduces the heat and makes them easier to stuff.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the sweet corn, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the mixture into each jalapeno half, filling them generously. If you like, sprinkle bacon bits on top for extra flavor.

Bake the Poppers

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers stuffed with Corn!

Best served warm with a side of ranch dip.

Pro Tips

For extra creaminess, consider adding a bit of sour cream to the filling mixture. Adjust the amount of jalapenos based on your preference for heat.

Customizing Your Poppers

Aside from the sweet corn, you can experiment with other fillings as well. Chopped bell peppers, black beans, or even crumbled feta cheese can add interesting flavors and textures to the poppers. The versatility of this recipe allows you to tailor the filling according to your preference or include leftovers from previous meals. Just make sure not to overload the filling, as it should remain a cohesive mixture to fit well into the jalapeno halves.

For a fun twist, you might also consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika to the filling. This can give your poppers an extra layer of flavor that complements the creaminess of the cheese while marrying well with the kick from the jalapenos.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find the filling too runny, it’s likely that the cream cheese wasn’t fully softened or that too much corn juice has added excess moisture. Always drain canned corn well, or if using frozen corn, ensure it’s thawed and dried before use. For a thicker filling, you can also incorporate a bit of bread crumbs or crushed crackers into the mixture, which helps to absorb moisture.

Another common issue is overcooking the jalapenos, leading to a mushy texture. To avoid this, keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking. They should be just tender enough to bite into but still firm. If you prefer a bit of char, you can briefly broil them for 1-2 minutes after baking to achieve golden edges while keeping the interiors creamy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking.

→ Are there any vegetarian options?

Absolutely! You can leave out the bacon bits to keep them vegetarian.

→ How can I make these gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn't include any bread or wheat products.

→ Can I freeze these poppers?

Yes! Just make sure they are completely cooled before freezing. You can bake them straight from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.