Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeños; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned); 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon lime juice

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn for gatherings. The sweet crispness of the corn complements the heat of the jalapenos perfectly, creating a delicious bite-sized appetizer that is always a hit. I enjoy experimenting with different cheeses to find the right combination that enhances the flavor profile. Once you try these spicy and sweet poppers, you’ll want to make them every chance you get—they're just that good!

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-13T23:19:05.763Z

When I first started making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn, I was amazed at how easily they came together. I found that using fresh corn instead of canned gives them a delightful crunch and sweetness that really enhances the dish. After several attempts, I realized that a touch of lime juice elevates the flavors even more, making each bite a burst of delightful taste.

Each time I serve these at parties or family gatherings, they disappear almost instantly. The combination of spicy jalapeños and creamy cheese with corn is irresistible. Plus, they only take about 10 minutes to bake, which is perfect for last-minute snack preparations. I love to serve them with a cool dipping sauce for balance!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        The vibrant contrast of sweet corn and spicy jalapeños.
Creamy filling that satisfies every craving.
Perfect appetizer for game day or casual get-togethers.

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Poppers

When preparing the jalapeños, controlling the heat is crucial for achieving a balanced flavor profile. Make sure to wear gloves while handling them; the oils can linger on your skin and cause irritation. If you prefer a milder popper, remove all the seeds and the white membranes inside, as these are where most of the heat resides. Alternatively, if you enjoy a little more spice, leave some seeds intact for that extra kick.

For the filling, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This makes it easier to mix with other ingredients and results in a creamy texture that melds beautifully with the corn. If you have difficulty softening the cream cheese quickly, you can microwave it for about 15-20 seconds. Just be cautious not to melt it since a loose filling won’t hold up during baking.

Ingredient Insights

Using fresh corn enhances the overall flavor and texture of the filling. If you’re using canned corn, drain it thoroughly to prevent excess moisture, which could lead to soggy poppers. You can also substitute corn with other vegetables like diced bell peppers or black beans for a different taste profile while keeping the essence of the dish intact.

Cheddar cheese adds a rich and sharp flavor, but don't limit yourself to just that. Consider using a blend of cheeses for depth; for example, adding a bit of pepper jack for a spicy twist or mozzarella for a gooey texture. This recipe is versatile—experimenting with cheese combinations can yield delightful surprises.

Serving and Storing Tips

These poppers are best served fresh out of the oven while the filling is hot and bubbly, highlighting the contrast between the crispy jalapeño and the creamy filling. For a fun serving suggestion, pair them with a cool dipping sauce, like a cilantro-lime crema or guacamole. This not only enhances the flavors but also offers a refreshing contrast to the heat.

If you want to prepare these poppers ahead of time, you can stuff the jalapeños up to a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking, which helps them cook evenly. If you have leftovers, they can be successfully reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 7-10 minutes to regain their crispy texture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious experience.

For the Poppers

12 large jalapeños
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lime juice

Make sure to choose jalapeños that are firm and not overly wrinkled for the best results!

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Jalapeños

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds carefully to reduce the heat level.

Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.

Stuff the Poppers

Spoon the filling into each halved jalapeño, pressing lightly to ensure they are well packed.

Bake the Poppers

Arrange the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes or until the tops are golden and bubbly.

Allow the poppers to cool for a few minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips

Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for added spice, or try adding herbs for a unique twist.

Variations to Try

To mix things up, consider adding cooked bacon or chorizo to the cheese filling. This adds a savory crunch that complements the sweet corn beautifully. For vegetarians, finely chopped sautéed mushrooms or onions can offer a rich umami flavor without meat.

For a sweeter twist, try adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of brown sugar over the filling before baking. This caramelizes slightly in the oven, providing a delightful contrast to the spice of the jalapeños, making for an intriguing flavor combination that surprises the palate.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your poppers end up overly watery, this could be due to excess liquid from the corn or cream cheese. Make sure to thoroughly drain canned corn and avoid using cream cheese that hasn't been properly softened, as this can lead to inconsistencies in the filling. The ideal mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when stuffed but creamy enough to pipe easily.

If you find that the jalapeños are not softening during baking, consider increasing the baking time slightly or covering the baking sheet with foil for the first half of the cooking time to trap heat and steam, which helps to soften the peppers while allowing the tops to get golden towards the end.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable. If you're hosting a larger gathering, simply double the quantities of ingredients and prepare as directed. Just make sure to use a larger baking sheet or multiple sheets to ensure even cooking, as overcrowding can lead to uneven baking times.

Alternatively, if you want to try a smaller batch, you can cut the number of jalapeños in half. Store any extra filling in the refrigerator for up to two days and use it to fill additional jalapeños later, or even use it as a spread for crackers or toast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of peppers?

Absolutely! You can substitute bell peppers or other mild peppers for a less spicy version.

→ How can I make these poppers vegetarian?

Simply omit the cheese containing animal rennet and switch to a vegetarian cheese alternative.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes! You can stuff the jalapeños a day ahead and keep them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ Are there any tips for making the filling creamy?

Make sure your cream cheese is well softened before mixing—it helps to create a smoother filling.