Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese

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

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Corn and Cheese because they combine my favorite flavors into a perfect appetizer. The spiciness of the jalapenos is beautifully balanced by the sweetness of corn and the creaminess of cheese. Every time I serve these poppers, they disappear quickly. It’s a fun and interactive dish, perfect for gatherings, and they are surprisingly easy to put together. If you want something a little different for your next party, I highly recommend giving these a try!

Created by

Lavinia Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:34:36.055Z

My journey with Jalapeno Poppers began during a backyard barbecue where they were the star of the show. We experimented with different fillings, but the corn and cheese combination became an instant favorite. The sweetness of the corn complements the jalapeno heat, and every time I make them, I feel like I’m sharing a bit of my cooking adventures with friends.

I’ve learned that baking rather than frying leaves them crispy yet light, allowing the flavors to shine. Serving them with a zesty dip takes them to another level. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll quickly become your go-to party appetizer!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The perfect harmony of sweet and spicy flavors
A creamy filling that oozes deliciousness
Ideal finger food for any gathering or game day

Perfecting Your Jalapeno Filling

The cream cheese used in these jalapeno poppers provides not only the desired creamy texture but also acts as a base for the whole filling. When mixing your filling, ensure that your cream cheese is very soft to avoid lumps. An electric mixer can help achieve a smooth consistency, which ensures that every bite of the poppers is rich and luscious. If you want to add a tangy twist, consider mixing in a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

To achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and spiciness, using fresh corn is ideal. If using canned corn, be sure to drain it well to prevent excess moisture in the filling. If you’d like to enhance the flavor, try sautéing the corn lightly in a skillet with a touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt until it’s slightly caramelized. This can deepen the flavor profile of your poppers.

Baking to Perfection

Baking the jalapeno poppers at 375°F (190°C) is crucial for getting that wonderfully golden, crispy texture without burning. As they bake, keep an eye on them after the first 10 minutes; you want the cheese to be bubbly and the jalapenos tender, but avoid overbaking, which can lead to burnt edges. If you prefer a more charred flavor, you can turn the broiler on for the last minute of baking, but be vigilant to prevent burning.

If you’re making these poppers ahead of time, consider refrigerating the unbaked filled jalapenos. They can be assembled a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. When ready to cook, bake directly from the fridge; just allow an additional 5-8 minutes of baking time to ensure they're heated through.

Ingredients

For Jalapeno Poppers

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

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Halve the jalapenos lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce heat.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, corn, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese and corn mixture into each jalapeno half, packing it in generously.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet. Brush them lightly with olive oil and bake for 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the jalapenos are tender.

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, you can sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs on top of the stuffed jalapenos before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Jalapeno poppers are incredibly versatile and can be served as a standalone appetizer or paired with various dips. A creamy ranch or a zesty salsa can complement their flavor wonderfully. For a fun twist, serve them with a side of guacamole for a rich, creamy contrast that plays well against the heat of the jalapenos.

For a visually appealing presentation, consider garnishing your poppers with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions after baking. This not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that enhances the overall dish. I like to serve mine on a platter lined with lettuce leaves for a pop of green.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize these poppers according to your taste. For instance, you can add cooked bacon or sausage to the cheese filling for a savory, meaty burst in every bite. Alternatively, a hint of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can elevate the heat level if you want a spicier kick.

For a healthier version, consider using low-fat cream cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative. You can also replace cheddar cheese with dairy-free cheese shreds for a lactose-free option, ensuring that everyone at your gathering can enjoy these delicious poppers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, feel free to mix it up! Pepper Jack or mozzarella can add unique flavors.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The spiciness depends on the jalapenos; removing the seeds can help tame the heat.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can stuff the jalapenos a day in advance, just bake them right before serving.

→ What can I serve with these poppers?

They pair well with ranch, sour cream, or a spicy salsa for dipping!