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 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or canned); 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping); Cooking spray or oil (for grilling)

Highlighted under: Global World Food Favorites

I love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn as a delicious appetizer that never fails to impress my guests. The combination of spicy jalapenos and sweet corn creates an exciting flavor contrast, while the creamy cheese filling leaves everyone coming back for more. What's great about this recipe is that it’s easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or game nights. Plus, you can adjust the level of heat to suit your taste. Let’s dive into this lip-smacking recipe that brings a burst of flavor to any occasion!

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:09:35.225Z

When I first tried Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn, I was amazed at how well the sweet corn balanced the spicy kick of the jalapeno. I decided to experiment with several fillings, but the corn and cheese combination quickly became my favorite. Not only does it taste incredible, but it also adds a creamy texture that complements the popper perfectly.

Another tip I discovered is to grill the poppers instead of baking them. This method gives the poppers a smoky flavor that elevates the dish. Simply place them on the grill for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfect balance of spicy and sweet flavors
Creamy cheese filling that delights the palate
Fun and delicious appetizer that’s easy to make

Perfecting Your Jalapeno Poppers

One of the keys to achieving perfectly stuffed jalapeno poppers is ensuring that your jalapenos are fresh and firm. Choose peppers that are vibrant in color and free from blemishes. When cutting, a sharp knife helps prevent bruising the pepper flesh. Additionally, if you prefer a milder flavor, be cautious with the membrane removal, as it contains much of the heat. For an extra layer of flavor, you could also marinate the jalapenos in olive oil and spices for about 30 minutes before filling them.

Creating the filling is where your creativity can shine. The combination of cream cheese and cheddar provides a rich, creamy base that complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully. For a twist, consider adding finely chopped cooked bacon or diced bell peppers to enhance the flavor complexity. If you're in a hurry or don’t have cream cheese, a mix of ricotta and sour cream also works surprisingly well, resulting in a different yet delightful texture.

Baking vs. Grilling

Whether you choose to bake or grill your stuffed jalapenos heavily influences the final texture and flavor. Baking them allows for even cooking and that distinctive crispness on top created by the breadcrumbs, especially if you use a broiler in the last few minutes. If you opt for grilling, be mindful that the cooking time may be shorter; monitor them closely to avoid burning and to achieve a smoky char that pairs wonderfully with the filling.

A grill adds depth of flavor, with a nice char on the outside while keeping the filling warm and gooey. If grilling, I recommend using a grill tray or foil to prevent the jalapenos from tipping over and losing their delicious stuffing. If you want to elevate your dish further, consider basing the poppers with a mixture of melted butter and garlic as they grill for an extra layer of richness and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
1 cup sweet corn (fresh or canned)
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
Cooking spray or oil (for grilling)

Make sure to wear gloves while handling the jalapenos to avoid skin irritation.

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven or grill to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce heat.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the sweet corn, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Stuff and Coat

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half. Press the filling down to ensure they are well-stuffed. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.

Bake or Grill

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking tray or grill. Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

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

These poppers are best enjoyed fresh and warm!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses or add cooked bacon for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Jalapeno poppers can be served on their own as a finger food or paired with dipping sauces for added flavor. A tangy ranch or creamy blue cheese dressing can nicely counterbalance the heat of the jalapenos. For a twist, you can serve them with mango salsa or avocado crema, which adds a fresh contrast to the spicy poppers and enhances their appeal at parties.

Consider presenting your jalapeno poppers on a platter garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions. This not only adds a pop of color but also offers a fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheese. If you're looking to make this dish more of a meal, serve them alongside a refreshing salad or slaw.

Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftovers, jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to preserve their crispy texture. Microwaving is convenient but can make the poppers soggy, so I recommend using the oven whenever possible to maintain their original deliciousness.

For longer storage, jalapeno poppers can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just add a few minutes to the cooking time. If frozen after baking, simply reheat in the oven as mentioned above.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of pepper?

Yes, you can use smaller peppers like banana peppers if you prefer less heat.

→ How can I make these poppers vegan?

You can substitute the cream cheese and cheddar with vegan cheese alternatives.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Absolutely! You can stuff the jalapenos in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.

→ What do I serve with Jalapeno Poppers?

They pair wonderfully with sour cream or a zesty dipping sauce.