Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 jalapenos; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup corn (fresh or canned); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I've always adored a good snack with a kick, and these jalapeno poppers filled with corn and cheese are absolutely delightful. The contrasting textures of creamy cheese and crunchy jalapenos create a fabulous explosion of flavors. Whether served at a party or enjoyed during a cozy night in, they always bring smiles. The secret lies in roasting the jalapenos just enough to soften their heat while still retaining some crunch, ensuring each bite is delicious. Plus, they are simple enough to make on a whim, making them my go-to appetizer.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:34:13.159Z

When I first made these jalapeno poppers, I was amazed at how quickly they disappeared at the gathering. I mixed sweet corn with cream cheese, which balanced the heat from the jalapenos perfectly. It’s all about finding that right combination of ingredients that not only tastes great together but also creates a wonderful harmony in texture.

One tip I discovered is to use fresh jalapenos over canned ones for a crunchier texture and more vibrant flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses! I love using a blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese for that creamy, cheesy goodness.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy cheese filling balanced by sweet corn
Perfectly spiced with a mild kick from jalapenos
Great for parties, game nights, or as a tasty snack

      

Jalapeno Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right jalapenos is essential for achieving the perfect balance of flavor and spice. Look for firm, vibrant green jalapenos with smooth skin. Avoid any that show wrinkles or blemishes, as they may be past their prime. I recommend tasting a slice of the pepper before starting to gauge its heat level, as some jalapenos can be spicier than others. If you're worried about the spice, you can choose to remove more of the seeds and membranes—this will significantly reduce the heat while still allowing for some flavor.

When preparing the jalapenos, make sure to use gloves or wash your hands immediately after handling them. The oils from jalapenos can cause skin irritation or accidentally transfer to your eyes. Cutting them open lengthwise not only allows for easy stuffing but also ensures they cook evenly. As a tip, if you want to infuse more flavor, you can marinate the halved peppers in a bit of olive oil, lime juice, and seasoning for an hour before stuffing.

Filling Dynamics

The filling you create for these poppers is key to their success. The combination of creamy cream cheese and shredded cheddar gives a rich texture, while the corn adds a natural sweetness that complements the heat of the jalapenos. If you're looking to experiment, consider adding diced red or green bell peppers to the filling for extra crunch and flavor. Alternatively, for a smoky twist, incorporate a small amount of smoked paprika or diced cooked bacon into the mixture.

Ensure that your cream cheese is softened properly as it makes mixing much easier. If your cream cheese is too cold, you might end up with lumps in your filling, which can disrupt the creamy texture we want. Mix until the filling is completely smooth and well incorporated. A hand mixer can also be helpful to achieve that perfect creamy consistency. Remember, it’s okay to adjust the seasonings to your taste—just keep track of the flavor balance to accommodate the jalapeno's natural kick.

Baking and Serving Suggestions

When baking the jalapeno poppers, watch for the cheese to bubble and turn a light golden brown, which usually takes about 20 minutes. Each oven can vary slightly, so keeping an eye on them during the last few minutes ensures that they don’t overcook. If you prefer a bit of crispiness, consider broiling them for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end, but be attentive to avoid burning them.

These poppers can be served hot out of the oven or at room temperature, making them versatile for different occasions. For a fun twist, serve them with a zesty dipping sauce like ranch or a cilantro-lime crema to complement the flavors. Remember, these poppers are great for meal prep; you can assemble them a day ahead and refrigerate, baking just before serving. If you want, they can also be frozen before baking and cooked straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for an unforgettable snack!

Ingredients for Jalapeno Poppers

12 jalapenos
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup corn (fresh or canned)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Make sure to have everything ready before starting to assemble!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create delicious jalapeno poppers.

Prepare Jalapenos

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.

Make the Filling

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

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, pressing gently to ensure it's packed in.

Bake

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade jalapeno poppers!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, try topping the stuffed jalapenos with breadcrumbs before baking. You can also add spices like cumin or paprika to the filling for extra flavor.

Ingredient Variations

If you're looking for a healthier version of these jalapeno poppers, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. This swap maintains the creamy texture while significantly reducing the fat content. Just be sure to adjust your seasoning as these alternatives may have a milder flavor compared to cream cheese.

For those who are dairy-free, you can use vegan cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of cheddar cheese to achieve a similar cheesy flavor. It's essential to check that the brand of cream cheese and cheese alternative will melt well; some do not perform the same as traditional dairy products.

Make-Ahead Tips

These jalapeno poppers can be prepared in advance, making them perfect for gatherings. After stuffing the jalapenos, arrange them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This way, you can pop them in the oven right before your guests arrive, ensuring they are fresh and hot when served.

If you're making a large batch, consider freezing some of the stuffed jalapenos. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to an airtight container. Frozen poppers can last up to three months. When you’re ready to eat them, bake them directly from the freezer—just be sure to add an extra 5-10 minutes to your baking time for best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ How do I store leftover jalapeno poppers?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the poppers and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ Are there any alternatives to cream cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for a lighter option, though it may change the flavor slightly.

→ Can I freeze jalapeno poppers?

Absolutely! After assembly, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen; just add a few extra minutes.