Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup canned corn, drained; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making these Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese! Every time I prepare them, it feels like I'm creating a little fiesta in my kitchen. The combination of spicy jalapenos, sweet corn, and gooey cheese is irresistible. Whether served as an appetizer at a gathering or as a fun snack at home, these poppers are always a hit. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks alike. Get ready to impress your guests with this zesty delight!

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:43:15.623Z

When I first made these poppers, I was amazed by how quickly they disappeared at the party. The crispy texture on the outside pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy filling, making them a total crowd-pleaser. I love to add a bit of chopped cilantro for extra freshness and flavor, which gives a delightful surprise with each bite.

One important tip I've learned is to choose jalapenos of similar size so that they cook evenly. Additionally, ensuring the filling is well-seasoned will make a world of difference in flavor. Trust me, these Jalapeno Poppers will quickly become a go-to recipe you'll want to share!

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        Spicy kick balanced with sweet corn
Creamy filling that oozes with cheese
Perfect snack for parties or movie nights

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for these poppers, look for firm peppers that are glossy and bright green. The size matters too; larger jalapenos may provide more room for stuffing but can be spicier, while smaller ones tend to have a milder flavor. If you're sensitive to heat, consider using milder peppers or even mini bell peppers as a substitute for a sweetness without the punch.

Check the firmness of each pepper by gently squeezing; they should feel solid with no soft spots. If you find a few that seem too hot for your party, you can always tone down the heat by removing more seeds and membranes. This step is crucial in controlling the final flavor of your poppers.

Perfecting the Creamy Filling

The filling for these poppers is what truly sets them apart. Combining cream cheese and cheddar creates a rich and creamy texture, while the addition of sweet corn adds a delightful contrasting crunch. I suggest softening the cream cheese to room temperature to ensure it blends smoothly with the other ingredients. This makes the filling easier to pipe in and reduces the risk of breaking the jalapenos.

For a flavor twist, experiment with adding spices like smoked paprika or diced sun-dried tomatoes to the mixture. These additions can elevate the taste profile and give your poppers a unique edge. Mixing in some crumbled goat cheese or feta can also introduce a tangy contrast to the cheddar's richness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your jalapeno poppers come out soggy, it might be because of excess moisture in the filling or from the peppers themselves. To fix this, ensure the canned corn is thoroughly drained and consider patting down the jalapenos with a paper towel before stuffing. Another tip is to increase the baking temperature slightly for the last few minutes to crisp up the breadcrumbs without burning them.

For an even golden-brown finish, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time. If some poppers are browning faster than others, it can often be due to uneven heating in the oven. Remember to keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary widely. Your poppers should look golden with crispy edges when they're ready to come out!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup canned corn, drained
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs
Olive oil for drizzling

Make sure to prep all your ingredients before starting!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your poppers:

Prepare Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes (use gloves!).

Make Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, corn, cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Stuff Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling generously. Then, roll the stuffed jalapenos in breadcrumbs to coat.

Bake

Arrange the poppers on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Jalapeno Poppers with your favorite dipping sauce!

Enjoy your delicious homemade Jalapeno Poppers!

Pro Tips

For a milder flavor, you can soak the jalapenos in water for about 30 minutes before preparing them. This helps to reduce some of the heat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Once your jalapeno poppers have cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to make them ahead of time, consider stuffing the peppers and placing them on a baking sheet, then covering and refrigerating until you're ready to bake. This can save you time when entertaining guests.

To reheat the poppers, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain their crispy texture, unlike microwaving, which can make them soggy.

Serving Suggestions

These poppers are excellent on their own, but they can be enhanced with various dipping sauces. Try serving them alongside ranch dressing, guacamole, or salsa for a fun flavor pairing. Mixing a bit of hot sauce or sriracha into your ranch can also give an extra kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy poppers.

For a festive touch, arrange your poppers on a platter garnished with lime wedges and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also provides a nice balance to the richness of the cheese-filled peppers.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the filling. A blend of mozzarella and pepper jack can give a wonderful stretch and added flavor. If you want to make it heartier, consider mixing in crumbled bacon or cooked sausage for a meaty twist that makes these poppers even more satisfying.

If you're looking to create a vegetarian-friendly version, try substituting the cheddar with vegan cheese and adding diced bell peppers or zucchini for additional texture and nutrition. This way, you can retain the fun without compromising dietary needs!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed jalapenos and keep them in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can use ricotta cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftover jalapeno poppers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

→ Can I freeze these poppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just bake them from frozen and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.