Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Corn Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Corn Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen, thawed); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional); 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love whipping up these Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Corn Filling for gatherings and game days. The combination of spicy jalapenos and a rich, creamy filling creates a flavor explosion that everyone devours. I enjoy preparing them ahead of time, allowing the filling to meld overnight for a more robust taste. Plus, they are surprisingly simple to make. If you haven’t tried making poppers at home, this recipe will elevate your appetizer game and impress your friends and family alike!

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:13:17.580Z

When I first made Jalapeno Poppers with Creamy Corn Filling, I was amazed at how well the flavors complemented each other. The sweet corn perfectly balances the spiciness of the jalapenos, while the creamy cheese filling adds a delightful texture. I learned that roasting the jalapenos first helps to mellow their heat, making them more palatable for everyone.

One important tip I picked up is to stuff the poppers generously. This ensures that every bite is filled with that creamy corn goodness. I also love playing with toppings – sometimes I sprinkle bacon bits for extra crunch and flavor. These poppers have become a staple in my kitchen, always a hit!

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        Perfect balance of spicy and sweet flavors
Creamy, smooth filling that delights your taste buds
Ideal finger food for parties and gatherings

      

Ingredient Insights

The use of jalapenos is what truly defines this dish, and selecting the right peppers is essential for balancing heat. Fresh jalapenos should be firm and bright green. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for larger, less spicy peppers or remove more seeds and membranes. The cream cheese plays a crucial role, providing a creamy texture that balances the spiciness of the jalapenos. Ensure it's at room temperature for easy mixing and a smoother filling.

In addition to cream cheese and cheddar, the use of sweet corn adds a delightful sweetness that contrasts the heat of the jalapenos. Canned corn works well, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it to prevent excess moisture in the filling. Sour cream adds a tangy note that enhances the richness of the filling, so don't skip it! You can also experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When preparing your jalapenos, slicing them in half lengthwise creates a more stable popper that can hold the filling well. This ensures each bite is a perfect blend of spicy and creamy. If you're concerned about filling overflow, you can use toothpicks to secure the halves together after stuffing. Bake the poppers until they're tender but not mushy — about 20 to 25 minutes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) should achieve a nice golden top and softened pepper texture.

Keep an eye on the filling while it cooks. The goal is to reach a golden, slightly caramelized top, which indicates that the cheese is melting perfectly. If the jalapenos are browning too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to avoid burning. If you're looking for an extra crunch, consider broiling the poppers for the last couple of minutes, but watch them closely to prevent overly crispy edges.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup sour cream
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce heat. You can wear gloves to prevent pepper oils from irritating your skin.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the sweet corn, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Generously fill each jalapeno half with the creamy corn mixture. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.

Bake

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the jalapenos are tender and the filling is lightly golden.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the poppers from the oven and let cool slightly before garnishing with chopped green onions. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy Your Snack!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding crumbled bacon or jalapeno slices to the filling. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These jalapeno poppers can easily be prepared in advance, making them ideal for gatherings. After stuffing the jalapenos, cover them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste. When ready to bake, you can place them directly into the oven without needing to bring them back to room temperature.

If you have leftovers, store the baked poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This helps to maintain their crispy texture rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize the filling according to your taste preferences! You can mix in cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor or add diced jalapenos to the filling for extra spice. For a vegetarian option, try incorporating black beans or diced bell peppers into the mix, which adds both color and flavor while keeping the dish satisfying.

For a different twist, experiment with various herbs and spices. A hint of cumin or smoked paprika can infuse the filling with earthy tones that complement the corn and cheese beautifully. You could also top the baked poppers with a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cilantro for a fresh finish before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and filling a day in advance. Just assemble them and store in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ Are these poppers very spicy?

The heat level depends on the jalapenos' ripeness. If you prefer less heat, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes.

→ Can I freeze these jalapeno poppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking. Just bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve these poppers with?

These poppers are fantastic on their own, but you can also serve them with ranch dressing or a spicy dipping sauce for added flavor.