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 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup canned corn, drained; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup bread crumbs; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese for gatherings or cozy nights in. The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy cheese is a taste sensation that never fails to impress. The sweetness from the corn beautifully balances the heat, making it a crowd-pleaser. With a crispy exterior and gooey filling, these poppers are not just delicious but also incredibly fun to eat. Trust me, once you offer these at your next get-together, they’ll vanish in no time!

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:34:07.823Z

When I first tried Jalapeno Poppers at a friend's barbecue, I was hooked! The crunch of the pepper combined with the melty cheese and sweet corn left a lasting impression. I knew I had to recreate my own version, and it turned out to be easier than I thought!

One of my favorite tips is to bake the poppers instead of frying them. Not only does this cut down on the grease, but it also enhances the flavor of the jalapenos and helps achieve that delightful crispiness without the extra calories. Plus, I like to use a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Spicy jalapenos paired with creamy cheese for a perfect bite
Sweet corn adds a delightful twist and texture
Ideal for parties, game days, or as a delicious snack

      

Perfecting the Jalapeno Preparation

When preparing the jalapenos, it's essential to be cautious when cutting and seeding them. I recommend wearing gloves to protect your hands from their natural oils, which can linger and cause irritation. After halving the peppers, use a small spoon or a paring knife to carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes. Remember, the more you remove, the milder the poppers will be, but if you enjoy heat, keeping some seeds will enhance the spice level significantly.

Once cleaned, it's helpful to lay the jalapeno halves cut-side up on your cutting board. This allows for easy filling and prevents any leaking of the cheese mixture. If you want to add a fun twist, consider roasting the jalapenos slightly before stuffing to enhance their flavor and add a smoky backdrop. Just pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they're slightly tender before stuffing.

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in achieving that perfect jalapeno popper experience. The cream cheese provides a rich, creamy base that melds beautifully with the sharpness of the cheddar cheese. Their creaminess counterbalances the heat from the jalapenos, making each bite a delightful contrast. Canned corn contributes a sweet crunch that not only adds texture but also helps round out the flavors by introducing a hint of sweetness that offsets the spice.

The garlic powder and smoked paprika are pivotal in elevating the taste profile. Garlic powder brings a subtle depth while smoked paprika infuses a gentle smokiness that complements the roasted flavor of the jalapenos. If you're looking for a twist, feel free to experiment by adding diced bell peppers or incorporating a different type of cheese like pepper jack for a more intense and spicy experience. Just remember that the liquid content should be adjusted accordingly if using a different kind of cheese.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started on your Jalapeno Poppers:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup canned corn, drained
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup bread crumbs
Olive oil spray

Now that you have everything, let’s move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bring your Jalapeno Poppers to life:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. This helps reduce the heat level, but if you like it spicy, feel free to keep some seeds!

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, corn, green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, packing it in generously. Then, dip the stuffed jalapenos in the bread crumbs, coating them evenly.

Bake the Poppers

Place the coated jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with olive oil to ensure a crispy texture. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy!

Let the poppers cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm!

Your Jalapeno Poppers are ready to be devoured! Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty treat.

Pro Tips

Try using different types of cheese like pepper jack for an extra kick or add some bacon bits for a smoky flavor. Adjust the amount of jalapenos based on your spice tolerance!

Serving Suggestions

These Jalapeno Poppers are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. Consider offering a cooling ranch or sour cream dip on the side to counterbalance the heat. A zesty avocado lime crema could also elevate the experience, providing a creamy contrast and adding a fresh flavor kick. If you're prepping for a game day, serving them alongside your favorite salsa or guacamole can create a fun, shareable snack platter.

To enhance the presentation, garnish your poppers with freshly chopped cilantro or a drizzle of balsamic reduction before serving. This not only adds visual appeal but also infuses extra flavor. If there's any leftover filling, I recommend mixing it into pasta or using it as a spread on crackers instead of letting it go to waste.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Jalapeno Poppers can be made ahead of time, which is a fantastic way to ease the stress before a gathering. After stuffing and coating them with bread crumbs, you can freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag for longer storage. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just increase your baking time by 5-7 minutes for perfectly crispy poppers right from the freezer.

If you're concerned about keeping them warm after baking, consider using a warming tray or placing them on a heat-proof platter covered with a kitchen towel. This helps maintain their warmth and texture without overcooking them. I find that they taste best within an hour of baking, as they retain their crunchier exterior and gooey filling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the poppers and assemble them ahead of time. Just keep them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ Are these poppers spicy?

They have a mild to moderate heat level, especially if you remove the seeds and membranes. For spicier poppers, leave in some seeds.

→ Can I freeze leftover jalapeno poppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked poppers. Just reheat them in the oven when you're ready to enjoy.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair well with sour cream, ranch dressing, or a tangy salsa for dipping.