Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 jalapeno peppers; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen, thawed); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping); Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love these Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese! The flavor combination is out of this world, offering a perfect balance between creamy cheese and spicy jalapenos. Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste, complemented by the sweetness of corn. Whether I’m hosting a party or simply satisfying a snack craving, these poppers never fail to impress. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make and a great way to elevate any gathering. Get ready to wow your guests with this delicious treat!

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:16:20.234Z

Making these Jalapeno Poppers filled with Corn and Cheese has been a fun culinary adventure for me. I was initially worried about balancing the heat of the jalapenos with the sweetness of the corn, but I found that adding a touch of cream cheese created a beautifully creamy texture that cuts through the spice perfectly. I also experimented with different types of cheese and discovered that a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives an unbeatable flavor and texture.

Another tip I learned is to soak the jalapenos in water for about 10 minutes before stuffing them. This simple step helps tone down the heat just enough for those who might be sensitive to spice, while still preserving that essential kick. These poppers are always a hit and disappear quickly!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bursting with flavor from zesty jalapenos and sweet corn
Creamy cheese filling that's irresistible
Great appetizer for parties and gatherings
Simple to customize with your favorite cheeses

      

Mastering the Baking Process

Baking jalapeno poppers at 375°F (190°C) is key for achieving the perfect texture. The heat allows the jalapenos to soften without losing their vibrant color. You want the skins to blister slightly, which creates a pleasing contrast between the tender interior and the slightly spiced skins. Keep an eye on them during the final five minutes; the cheese should be bubbling and beginning to turn golden, providing a visual cue for doneness.

For those who enjoy extra crunch, consider changing up the topping. While breadcrumbs add delicious texture, I often mix in crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs for a different flavor profile. If you're preparing these for guests, a sprinkle of paprika on top can enhance both the flavor and appearance, creating a tantalizing appeal on your serving platter.

Tailoring Your Poppers

One of the fantastic aspects of jalapeno poppers is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with the types of cheese you use. Adding a bit of cream cheese provides a delicious creaminess, while smoked gouda or pepper jack can introduce an intriguing smoky flavor or extra heat. Mixing different cheeses can elevate the taste profile and keep everyone guessing what’s in the filling.

If you're looking for a healthier twist, consider swapping out the cream cheese for Greek yogurt. This substitution lowers the fat content while still maintaining that creamy texture. Using fresh corn instead of canned or frozen can also provide a crunchier texture and a sweeter flavor—just make sure to cook it slightly before mixing it into the filling for even cooking during the baking process.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your jalapeno poppers:

Ingredients

12 jalapeno peppers
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling

Be sure to adjust the ingredients based on your spice tolerance and preferences!

Instructions

Here’s how to prepare your delicious Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. You may leave some seeds if you prefer more heat.

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Use a spoon to fill each jalapeno half with the cheese and corn mixture. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.

Bake the Poppers

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Jalapeno Poppers warm, and watch them disappear!

Feel free to experiment with different fillings or toppings.

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding cooked chorizo or bacon to the cheese mixture for an extra layer of flavor!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, it's important to store them properly to preserve their flavor and texture. Place the cooled jalapeno poppers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through and the cheese is again gooey.

For long-term storage, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed jalapenos. Just assemble them and spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a zip-lock bag. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just add an extra 5-10 minutes to your baking time and enjoy them fresh from the oven.

Creative Serving Suggestions

Serve these jalapeno poppers with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for a flavor contrast that complements their heat. Consider adding a sweet chili sauce or a spicy salsa on the side to dip into. The balance of creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors will leave your guests raving about your culinary skills.

For a fun presentation at parties, try skewering the baked poppers with toothpicks and serving them on a platter with assorted dipping sauces. This makes them easy for guests to grab without fuss, allowing them to mingle while enjoying a burst of flavor. Pair them with margaritas or a cold beer for an extra festive touch!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these Jalapeno Poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and stuff the jalapenos, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I serve with Jalapeno Poppers?

They pair well with dipping sauces such as ranch, sour cream, or a spicy salsa.

→ Are these poppers very spicy?

The spice level depends on the jalapenos used. By removing the seeds and soaking them, you can significantly reduce the heat.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed jalapenos?

Yes! Once stuffed, you can freeze them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you're ready to cook them.