Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or canned); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp paprika; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn as a delightful appetizer or snack. The combination of spicy jalapenos and sweet corn creates a flavor explosion that is both addictive and satisfying. When I’m hosting friends or family, these poppers are always a crowd favorite. The creamy cheese filling balances perfectly with the heat of the peppers, and baking them gives a crispy texture that takes them to another level. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:40:09.913Z

I remember the first time I made these Jalapeno Poppers. The blend of cream cheese and corn was such a hit that I decided to keep them on my go-to party menu. The secret is to mix in a little garlic powder and spices to enhance the flavor, which results in an irresistible filling. Plus, baking instead of frying means they’re a bit healthier!

Over time, I’ve experimented with different cheeses and spices, but nothing beats the classic combo. Using fresh, sweet corn adds a wonderful crunch that complements the jalapenos perfectly. If you want an extra kick, don't hesitate to add some chopped jalapeno to the filling!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        A perfect balance of spice and sweetness with the corn.
Creamy texture wrapped in a crispy exterior.
Great for parties, or as a fun weekend snack.
Quick and easy to prepare in just 35 minutes!

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

Selecting the appropriate jalapenos is crucial for achieving the right balance of heat and flavor. Look for fresh jalapenos that are firm and bright green, as this indicates freshness. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for peppers that are smaller and thicker, as they often have fewer seeds. Conversely, larger jalapenos may pack more heat, so tasting a small piece before using them can help determine their spiciness level.

To enhance the texture of your poppers, consider removing some of the inner flesh along with the seeds, allowing for more filling and better caramelization during baking. If you accidentally cut too deeply or pureed the inside, don’t worry - just use an extra spoonful of the cheese filling, and ensure it's packed tightly.

Perfecting the Cheese Filling

The creamy cheese filling is what makes these poppers truly irresistible. Cream cheese is the base that gives a rich texture, while the cheddar adds depth of flavor. If you want to experiment with different cheeses, pepper jack can add an extra kick, or you could use a mild mozzarella if you're serving guests who may prefer less spice. Remember to let your cream cheese soften to room temperature; this will make mixing much easier and ensure a smooth filling.

Mix the filling until it’s fully combined, aiming for a glossy consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, consider folding in some chopped green onions or cooked bacon for added flavor. Just be careful not to overmix, which can make the cheese filling too dense. A perfect filling should be spreadable yet thick enough to hold its shape inside the jalapenos.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
1 cup sweet corn (fresh or canned)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp paprika
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds, being careful to wear gloves to avoid irritation. Place them on a baking sheet, cut side up.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sweet corn, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the filling into each jalapeno half, ensuring they're generously filled. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.

Bake and Serve

Bake the jalapeno poppers in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the tops are golden and the cheese is bubbly. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For a vegetarian option, skip any meat additions and use more corn or black beans. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations for unique flavors!

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers can be served alone or with a variety of dipping sauces. A cool ranch or sour cream dip is a great balance to the heat of the jalapenos, while a sweet chili sauce can complement the corn filling beautifully. Arrange them on a platter with lime wedges for a touch of zest and fresh herbs as garnish for a visually appealing presentation when entertaining guests.

For a full meal experience, consider pairing the poppers with a simple salad or tortilla chips and salsa. This can create a fun, shareable platter for your guests to enjoy. If serving kids or less adventurous eaters, I often suggest preparing a batch of milder poppers by substituting the jalapenos with poblano peppers, which provide a gentler flavor profile.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great things about these poppers is that they can be prepared ahead of time. You can stuff the jalapenos a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking, to ensure even baking.

If you want to make a large batch for a party, you can also freeze the unbaked stuffed jalapenos. Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be baked directly from the freezer; just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time and keep an eye out for that golden, bubbly cheese.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed jalapenos and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or a nut-based cream cheese alternative for a lighter version.

→ How spicy are these jalapenos?

The spice level can vary by jalapeno. For a milder taste, remove all the seeds and membranes.

→ Can I bake them instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking them is not only healthier but also retains the poppers' shape.