Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 10 poppers
Ingredients: 10 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup fresh corn kernels; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup minced green onions; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn for any gathering! The creaminess of the filling, combined with the spicy kick from the jalapenos, creates a delightful contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more. I find that using fresh corn adds a sweet crunch that perfectly balances the heat. This recipe is easy to whip up and is always a crowd-pleaser, making it a staple in my kitchen for parties and cozy nights in alike.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:25:09.688Z

Whenever I host friends, these Jalapeno Poppers are my go-to dish. The balance of flavors and textures is truly remarkable. I often experiment with the filling to make it even more interesting, and the sweet corn brings a surprising twist that elevates the whole experience.

To ensure the perfect popper, I grill the jalapenos first. This not only infuses a smoky flavor but also makes the peppers more tender, allowing the creamy filling to shine through. Adding a sprinkle of cheese on top just before serving creates a delicious golden crust that everyone loves!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy warmth from the jalapenos balanced with sweet corn
Creamy filling that is irresistibly addictive
Perfect finger food for gatherings and celebrations

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos, look for firm peppers with a vibrant green color. They should feel heavy for their size and have smooth skin. Avoid any that are wrinkled or have dark spots, as these can indicate overripeness. The heat level of jalapenos can vary significantly, so if you're unsure about the spiciness, taste a small piece before using them in your recipe. This way, you can adjust the amount you add to the filling or choose to leave a few seeds in for extra kick.

For a milder version, opt for smaller jalapenos, as they tend to be less spicy compared to their larger counterparts. You can also substitute with mild peppers like Anaheim or poblano for a gentler flavor, though they won’t provide quite the same heat. If you love experimenting, think about trying different peppers to find your perfect blend!

The Creamy Filling: Techniques and Variations

The cream cheese acts as the base for the filling, providing that luscious creaminess that pairs beautifully with the crunch of fresh corn. I recommend letting the cream cheese soften at room temperature to make mixing easier; this ensures a smoother filling without lumps. If you want to replace cream cheese with a lighter alternative, you can try Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind that this might alter the flavor slightly, making it less rich but still tasty.

Feel free to get creative with your cheese choices as well! Adding a bit of crumbled feta or pepper jack cheese can introduce an extra layer of flavor and complexity to the filling. Just be cautious with the salt, as different cheeses vary in saltiness. For additional depth, consider mixing in some crispy bacon bits or diced tomatoes for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

10 fresh jalapenos
1 cup fresh corn kernels
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup minced green onions
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the corn, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the filling into each jalapeno half, pressing down gently to fill them well.

Bake the Poppers

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet. Spray lightly with olive oil and bake for 20 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the tops are golden.

Serve

Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, try adding crumbled bacon to the filling for added flavor and texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the stuffed jalapenos a day in advance. Simply stuff the jalapenos with the filling and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time on the day of your gathering but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you're ready to bake, no need to bring them to room temperature; just pop them in the oven directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if necessary.

If you want to freeze your stuffed jalapenos, place them on a baking sheet after stuffing, freeze them until solid, and then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To cook from frozen, add about 10-15 minutes to your baking time, and check for doneness until the jalapenos are tender and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers are truly versatile and can be served with various dipping sauces. A cool and creamy ranch dressing or a zesty avocado dip perfectly balances the spice. If you're in the mood for some heat, a chipotle mayo or sriracha aioli adds a delicious kick. Consider garnishing with extra green onions or chopped cilantro for a fresh presentation.

For a complete appetizer spread, pair these poppers with other finger foods like mini sliders, veggie platters, or charcuterie boards. Their vibrant colors and enticing aroma make them an eye-catching addition to any gathering. Plus, they are a fantastic conversation starter, as everyone will want to share their own favorite jalapeno moment!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge, then bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ How can I reduce the heat of the jalapenos?

Remove the seeds and membranes thoroughly, as they contain most of the heat. You can also choose milder varieties of peppers.

→ Can I freeze stuffed jalapenos?

Absolutely! Just freeze them before baking, and when you're ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these poppers?

Sour cream, ranch dressing, or a zesty avocado dip make for delicious accompaniments!