Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 10 servings
Ingredients: 10 large jalapenos; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional); Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Highlighted under: Global Food

I absolutely love making these Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese. They are a perfect blend of spicy and creamy, making them my go-to appetizer for parties or cozy nights in. Each bite brings a delightful crunch followed by the rich meld of flavors. Whether I’m serving them for game day or a casual dinner, they never fail to impress and leave everyone asking for the recipe. Plus, preparing them is quick and rewarding, allowing me to indulge without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:05:35.151Z

I remember the first time I made these Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese for a gathering. The combination of sweet corn and spicy jalapenos was a hit! I learned that roasting the jalapenos before stuffing them enhances their flavor and adds another layer of sweetness, elevating the entire dish.

If you're cautious about the heat, I recommend removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos, as that really helps tame the spiciness while keeping the poppers deliciously rich. They disappear so quickly, you might want to make a double batch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy cheese filling balances the heat from the jalapenos
Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch and contrast
Perfect for any occasion – appetizer, snack, or party food

Jalapeno Selection

Choosing the right jalapenos is crucial for achieving the ideal flavor profile. Look for firm, glossy skin with a vibrant green color. The size matters, too; larger jalapenos provide more room for stuffing while retaining their heat. If you prefer a milder taste, opt for jalapenos with fewer seeds, or consider roasting them briefly before stuffing to mellow the spice without losing their crispiness during baking.

If you're adventurous, you can mix in some other peppers with different heat levels. For example, try blending in a few sweet mini bell peppers for a colorful display and a milder flavor contrast. This variation can also help balance out the dish if your crowd is sensitive to spice.

Perfecting the Filling

For a truly creamy filling, ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature before mixing. This makes it easier to blend with the other ingredients, creating a smooth consistency. If you want an extra flavor kick, consider adding a tablespoon of diced pickled jalapenos to the filling for added tang and heat.

The sweet corn not only adds texture but its natural sugars complement the heat from the jalapenos wonderfully. Using fresh corn will give your poppers a burst of sweetness and crunch. If using frozen corn, let it thaw fully and pat it dry with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture, which can make your filling too wet.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your poppers irresistible!

Ingredients

10 large jalapenos
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Jalapeno Poppers!

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, corn, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined and creamy.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.

Bake

Spray or brush the stuffed jalapenos lightly with cooking spray or oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve

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

Enjoy these delicious poppers at your next gathering!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, leave some seeds in the jalapenos or add diced jalapenos into the cheese filling.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare these poppers in advance by stuffing the jalapenos and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This simplicity allows you to enjoy a stress-free cooking experience on the day of your event. Just bake them straight from the fridge, adding an extra few minutes to the cooking time if needed.

If you're planning a larger gathering, consider making a double batch. Pop the extras in the freezer before baking, spaced out on a baking sheet. Once they're frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. They'll stay fresh for up to three months, ready to be baked directly from the freezer whenever cravings arise.

Serving Suggestions

These Jalapeno Poppers pair beautifully with a variety of dips. A simple sour cream or ranch dressing can cool the heat, while a zesty salsa offers a fresh contrast. For a fun twist, try serving them with a creamy avocado dip, which complements the spice and adds a rich, luxurious texture.

For a stunning presentation, garnish the baked poppers with finely chopped cilantro or green onions before serving. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can also add an unexpected sweet finish. These little details elevate the dish, making it not just delicious but also visually appealing.

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 a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or a mixture of ricotta cheese and sour cream.

→ Can I grill these instead of baking?

Absolutely! Just place the stuffed jalapenos on a grill-safe pan over medium heat and cook until the cheese is melted and jalapenos are tender.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before eating.