Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup sweet corn, canned or frozen; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn, especially when I'm entertaining guests. The sweet corn pairs beautifully with the spicy jalapenos, creating a delicious balance that keeps everyone coming back for more. Each bite is a satisfying combination of creamy cheese and a hint of savory spice, making them an irresistible appetizer. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and thrown into the oven just before serving, which is a lifesaver during busy gatherings!

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:46:13.211Z

One evening, while preparing for a weekend get-together, I decided to experiment with a new popper recipe. I combined sweet corn and cream cheese, giving the filling a subtle sweetness that beautifully complemented the jalapenos' heat. It was a game changer! The poppers quickly became the star of the show, winning praise from family and friends alike.

What I love about these Jalapeno Poppers is their versatility. You can adjust the spices in the filling to match your heat tolerance or add different cheeses for extra flavor. I also discovered that grilling them adds a lovely smoky flavor, enhancing the overall taste. I've never met anyone who didn’t love them!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Sweet corn adds a delightful texture and flavor
Perfectly balanced heat from fresh jalapenos
Creamy cheese filling that complements the spices
Great for parties, game days, or a cozy snack

      

Preparing Your Jalapenos

When handling jalapenos, it's essential to consider their heat level. Larger jalapenos tend to be milder, while smaller ones pack more punch. If you prefer a less spicy popper, be sure to remove all the seeds and white membranes from the inside, as this is where much of the heat is concentrated. Also, wearing gloves during this process can help prevent any unintended irritation to your skin or eyes.

Before cutting the jalapenos, rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt or residue. Use a sharp knife for a clean cut, and ensure your cutting board is stable. After halving and deseeding, you can soak the jalapenos briefly in a vinegar solution to mellow their heat even further; just soak them for about 10–15 minutes before drying and stuffing.

Perfecting the Cheese Filling

The combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar creates a creamy and flavorful filling that complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully. Softening the cream cheese is critical; microwave it for about 15 seconds if you forget to take it out in advance. This will make mixing much easier and prevent lumps in your filling, ensuring a smooth texture that spreads evenly inside the jalapenos.

Feel free to experiment by adding herbs such as cilantro or spices like smoked paprika to the filling for a unique flavor twist. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider substituting half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream cheese alternative. This retains the creaminess while reducing the overall calories.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
1 cup sweet corn, canned or frozen
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Make sure to wash the jalapenos well and use gloves while handling them to avoid irritation.

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon or a small knife.

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese and corn mixture generously into each jalapeno half, pressing down slightly to ensure it stays in place.

Bake the Poppers

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious jalapeno poppers warm!

For an extra kick, serve with a spicy dipping sauce on the side.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling with other ingredients like bacon bits or different types of cheese to suit your taste.

Storing and Making Ahead

Jalapeno poppers are an excellent option for prep-ahead entertaining. You can prepare them up to a day in advance. After stuffing the jalapenos, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake them, remove them from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing them in a preheated oven, as this helps them cook evenly.

These poppers also freeze well. After stuffing, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be baked straight from frozen—just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time. Enjoy fresh jalapeno poppers even on busy days!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your jalapeno poppers, consider serving them with a dip on the side. Creamy ranch dressing or a zesty avocado dip pairs wonderfully with the spicy and cheesy poppers. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice over the top just before serving to enhance the flavors further.

For a fun variation, try wrapping each stuffed jalapeno half in a slice of bacon before baking. The bacon adds a smoky flavor and a delightful crunch. If you're looking for a complete appetizer platter, serve your jalapeno poppers alongside other finger foods like nachos, guacamole, and salsa for a festive gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and filling in advance. Just stuff them and bake when ready to serve.

→ How spicy are these jalapeno poppers?

The spice level depends on the jalapenos used—if you prefer less heat, remove more seeds and membranes.

→ Can I grill these instead of baking?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a nice smoky flavor. Just be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair well with dips like ranch or creamy avocado sauce.