Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeds removed; 1 cup corn, canned or frozen, drained; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping); Cooking spray or olive oil

Highlighted under: International Culinary Magic

As a lover of bold flavors, I absolutely adore making Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese! These bite-sized snacks are a perfect blend of spice and creamy goodness, and I can never resist adding them to my appetizer spread. The sweetness from the corn really balances out the heat from the jalapenos, making them a favorite at gatherings. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to prepare, which means I can whip them up quickly whenever I'm in the mood for some delightful, cheesy goodness.

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:22:18.208Z

During one of our weekend cook-offs, I decided to mix things up by incorporating corn into my jalapeno poppers. The result was absolutely incredible! The sweetness of the corn combined with the richness of the cream cheese and sharp cheddar created an addictive flavor profile. Trust me when I say that this little addition elevates the classic recipe to new heights.

As I crafted each popper, I experimented with different seasonings, and I discovered that a sprinkle of smoked paprika added an irresistible depth of flavor. It really transformed these poppers into something special, and I can’t wait for you to try them out for yourself!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of spicy and sweet flavors
Creamy texture with a delightful crunch
Ideal for parties and gatherings, sure to impress guests

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Jalapeno Poppers

When making jalapeno poppers, the key to achieving a perfectly smooth filling is to ensure the cream cheese is sufficiently softened before mixing. I usually leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow you to blend in the cheddar cheese and corn seamlessly, resulting in a creamy, decadent filling that holds together well when baked.

One common issue when stuffing jalapenos is overfilling them, which can cause the mixture to spill out during baking. To avoid this, I recommend filling each jalapeno half until it is just mounded above the edge, allowing room for expansion. This way, you get to enjoy the filling without any mess in the oven.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

The combination of cream cheese and sharp cheddar is key for achieving the creamy texture and robust flavor in these poppers. If you’re looking to reduce dairy, consider using a plant-based cream cheese alternative; just ensure it's the spreadable kind for easy mixing. Additionally, feel free to incorporate other cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.

If you have a spice sensitivity but still want a hint of heat, consider substituting jalapenos with milder peppers such as banana or Anaheim peppers. They offer that lovely crunch and shape without the intense heat, making them a great choice for family-friendly gatherings.

Storage and Serving Tips

These jalapeno poppers can be prepped ahead of time, making party planning a breeze. Once filled, arrange them on a baking sheet and cover them tightly with plastic wrap. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before popping them in the oven to ensure even cooking.

For serving, I love to pair these poppers with a creamy dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese, to balance the heat. They also make fantastic game day snacks and can be served alongside nachos or sliders for a spread that will keep your guests excited. For leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge; they reheat wonderfully in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious jalapeno poppers:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeds removed
1 cup corn, canned or frozen, drained
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Cooking spray or olive oil

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start assembling your poppers!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your jalapeno poppers:

Prepare the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon, generously fill each jalapeno half with the cheese and corn mixture, pressing slightly to ensure it sticks.

Add Breadcrumbs (Optional)

For added crunch, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs over the filled jalapenos.

Bake the Poppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.

Bake for 15 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Allow the jalapeno poppers to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can experiment with spices! Consider adding cayenne pepper for more heat or fresh herbs for a refreshing twist.

Customizing Your Poppers

While the classic corn and cheese combination is a favorite, feel free to experiment with additional ingredients. Adding crumbled bacon or diced bell peppers can elevate your poppers to a whole new level. If you're a fan of herbs, finely chopped cilantro or green onions mixed into the filling can add a fresh flavor that complements the spicy jalapenos beautifully.

You can also change the cooking method by grilling the jalapeno poppers instead of baking them. Just preheat your grill to medium heat and place the poppers directly on the grill grates. They should take about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the cheese is melty and the jalapenos are tender. This method imparts a unique smoky flavor that is irresistible.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

If you find that your jalapeno poppers are coming out soggy, it may be due to excess moisture from the corn. To remedy this, make sure to thoroughly drain canned corn or consider briefly sautéing frozen corn in a pan to evaporate any excess water before adding it to your filling. This small adjustment will help maintain a crispy texture.

Another potential issue is uneven cooking where the jalapenos are overdone while the filling remains cold. To avoid this, try placing the halved jalapenos cut-side up on the baking sheet to ensure even heat distribution. This allows the tops to brown nicely while ensuring the creamy filling heats through properly.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're hosting a larger gathering, scaling up this recipe is straightforward. Simply multiply the ingredients proportionally. For easier preparation, you can prepare several trays of poppers at once, just be mindful of your oven space. The baking time should remain similar, but I recommend checking them periodically as larger batches can require an extra few minutes when accommodating multiple trays.

Should you decide to halve the recipe, you can still enjoy fresh jalapeno poppers without compromising on flavor. Just remember, the cooking time may decrease slightly, so keep an eye on them, ensuring they come out golden and bubbly without overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the poppers and store them unbaked in the refrigerator for up to a day.

→ Are there substitutes for cream cheese?

Yes, you can use ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

→ Can I freeze the poppers?

Absolutely! Once assembled, you can freeze them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.

→ How spicy are these jalapeno poppers?

The spice level will depend on the jalapenos you use. Removing the seeds and membranes will help reduce the heat.