Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for brushing

Highlighted under: Global Recipes

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese! This dish combines the heat from fresh jalapenos with the sweet crunch of corn and the creamy goodness of cheese. It’s great for party appetizers or even a cozy movie night snack. Each bite is a flavor explosion that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, these poppers are surprisingly easy to make, and I enjoy experimenting with different spices to customize the flavor. You really can’t go wrong with this cheesy, spicy delight!

Created by

Rosalyn Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:37:34.616Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese, I was skeptical about how these flavors would come together. To my surprise, the sweetness of the corn perfectly balances the spiciness of the jalapenos, while the cheese adds a rich, creamy texture that ties everything together. I enjoy serving these at gatherings because they disappear quickly!

One trick I learned is to soak the jalapenos in cold water for about 10 minutes before stuffing them. This not only helps reduce some of the heat but also gives them a nice crunch when baked. Trust me, it's this little detail that makes all the difference!

Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
Spicy and sweet combination that excites the palate
Creamy cheese melts perfectly with every bite
Perfect for sharing at parties or game nights

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for this recipe, look for peppers that are firm and glossy. Fresh jalapenos will have a vibrant color, which indicates ripeness and flavor. For those who prefer a milder heat, choose peppers that are slightly larger, as they tend to have a thicker wall and fewer seeds. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in some poblano peppers for a different flavor profile.

Be aware that the heat level of jalapenos can vary significantly. To get an accurate measure of the spiciness, test a small piece of the pepper before cooking. If they're too spicy for your taste, you can remove even more seeds and membranes from the inside or mix in some sweeter bell peppers to balance the heat.

Adjusting the Cheese Mixture

The base of cream cheese and cheddar offers a delightful creaminess, but feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties to suit your palate. For a bolder flavor, consider using pepper jack cheese, which adds an extra kick. Alternatively, for a smokier taste, smoked gouda can lend a unique twist that complements the spicy jalapenos beautifully.

If you're looking for a lighter option, try substituting half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. These alternatives still provide creaminess while cutting down on calories. Just ensure you adjust the seasoning since these substitutions can affect the overall flavor.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serve these jalapeno poppers fresh out of the oven for the best texture—crispy on the outside with gooey cheese inside. Pair them with a cool dip like ranch or sour cream to balance the heat while enhancing the overall flavor. These poppers can be garnished with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of freshness.

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which helps maintain their crispy texture. Alternatively, you can freeze them before baking; just flash freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag, and they can be baked straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your poppers delicious:

Ingredients

12 large jalapenos
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for brushing

Make sure to prepare your ingredients before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect jalapeno poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Soak them in cold water for about 10 minutes, then drain.

Mix the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese and corn mixture, packing it in generously.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and bake for 20 minutes or until golden.

Once done, let them cool slightly before serving!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add spices like cumin for an extra kick!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your jalapeno poppers are coming out soggy, it could be due to excess moisture in your ingredients, especially if you’re using frozen corn. Make sure to thaw and drain the corn thoroughly before mixing. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to allow for proper air circulation, which aids in achieving that desirable crispiness.

Another common issue is uneven cooking; this can happen if the jalapenos are not uniformly sized. Try to select jalapenos that are approximately the same length and width so they cook evenly. If you notice some are cooking faster than others, simply take those out earlier to prevent them from burning.

Make-Ahead Options

These jalapeno poppers can be prepared in advance, making them ideal for gatherings. You can stuff the jalapenos with the cheese mixture a day ahead and store them, covered, in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and can save time on the day of your event.

If you're looking to prepare them even further in advance, consider freezing the already stuffed jalapenos. Flash freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen at the same temperature; just allow an additional 5-10 minutes for cooking.

Variations to Try

For a unique twist, try adding cooked bacon or chorizo to the cheese filling. This not only enhances the flavor but adds a savory richness that complements the sweetness of the corn. Just make sure to chop the meat finely so that it distributes evenly throughout the filling.

Another fun variation is to create a southwestern flair by incorporating spices like cumin or smoked paprika into the filling. You can also sprinkle the finished poppers with a little bit of taco seasoning after baking for an extra burst of flavor that’s reminiscent of your favorite Tex-Mex dishes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and fill them with the cheese mixture ahead of time. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ How can I reduce the heat of the jalapenos?

To reduce the heat, make sure to remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. Soaking them in cold water before stuffing also helps.

→ What other ingredients can I add to the filling?

You can incorporate cooked bacon, diced onions, or different herbs and spices to customize the filling to your taste!

→ Can I grill these instead of baking them?

Absolutely! Grilling jalapeno poppers can add a wonderful smoky flavor. Just grill them over medium heat until they're cooked through.