Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
I love experimenting with flavors, and making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn turned out to be an amazing adventure in my kitchen. The heat of the jalapenos pairs beautifully with the sweetness of corn, creating a delightful contrast. The cheese adds a creamy texture that balances the spiciness perfectly. Whether I'm serving these at a gathering or enjoying them as a snack, they never fail to impress. It's a perfect recipe for anyone looking to excite their taste buds with a twist on a classic appetizer!
When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn, I was thrilled at the idea of mixing ingredients that complemented each other so well. The process began with carefully selecting fresh jalapenos and vibrant corn to ensure maximum flavor. I discovered that roasting the corn adds a smoky depth that elevates the poppers beyond ordinary appetizers.
During testing, I found that using a blend of cheeses not only enhances the creaminess but also adds the right amount of flavor complexity. By taking care to remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos, I adjusted the heat levels and created a perfectly balanced snack that everyone craves.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A delightful combination of spicy and sweet
- Creamy cheese filling complemented by roasted corn
- A fun, shareable appetizer for gatherings or game day
Understanding the Ingredients
The choice of jalapenos is crucial for the right balance of heat and flavor. I recommend selecting large, firm jalapenos to ensure they hold the stuffing well and provide a satisfying bite. If you're sensitive to heat, you can opt for milder varieties or remove more seeds from the peppers. Remember, the more seeds and membranes you remove, the milder your poppers will be.
Corn plays a starring role in this recipe, adding a natural sweetness that offsets the spiciness of the jalapenos. Whether you choose fresh, frozen, or canned corn, ensure it's drained well if using canned. This prevents excess moisture from making the filling too runny. For a slight smoky flavor, consider adding roasted corn or even grilling it before mixing it into the cheese filling.
Baking Techniques
Baking at the right temperature is essential for achieving that perfectly golden and bubbly finish. Preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) is ideal, but keep an eye on the poppers as they bake. You'll know they're ready when the cheese is melted and begins to lightly brown at the edges, approximately 15 minutes. If you prefer extra crispiness, consider broiling them for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Arrangement on the baking sheet can affect the final outcome too. Make sure the stuffed jalapenos are spaced apart to allow for even baking. Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper not only makes cleanup easier but also helps in achieving that golden color on the bottoms of the poppers. A light spray of cooking oil further enhances browning.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients before you start.
Jalapeno Poppers
- 12 large jalapenos
- 1 cup corn (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Bacon bits (optional) for topping
- Cooking oil spray
Make sure to wash the jalapenos before preparing them!
Steps to Make
Follow these steps to create delicious Jalapeno Poppers.
Prepare the Jalapenos
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.
Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, corn, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Stuff the Jalapenos
Spoon the filling into each jalapeno half, packing it in generously. If desired, sprinkle some bacon bits on top.
Bake
Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and spray lightly with cooking oil. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Let the poppers cool slightly before serving to ensure the filling sets.
Pro Tips
- For additional flavor, try adding some spices like cumin or paprika to the filling. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for varied taste.
Serving Suggestions
Jalapeno poppers are versatile and can be enjoyed in several ways. Serve them as a standalone appetizer or pair them with a dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard to complement the spiciness. I often prepare a fresh salsa on the side to add a burst of refreshing flavor that contrasts beautifully with the cheesy, spicy filling.
These poppers can also serve as a fun topping for nachos. Simply chop them up and scatter over tortilla chips, adding extra cheese and returning to the oven for a few minutes until everything is melted together. It’s a great way to use leftovers and creates a vibrant dish that’s perfect for game day!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you want to prepare these jalapeno poppers in advance, they can be assembled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them snugly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, there's no need to adjust the cooking time; just pop them straight into the preheated oven.
For leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp again. Freezing is also an option; place unbaked poppers on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can go directly from the freezer to the oven—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and stuff the jalapenos, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
→ What can I substitute for corn?
You can use diced bell peppers, black beans, or even chopped spinach as alternatives.
→ Can I make these poppers vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the bacon bits and use plant-based cheese options if desired.
→ How can I make these poppers spicier?
For extra heat, leave some seeds in the jalapenos or add diced hot peppers to the filling.
Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
I love experimenting with flavors, and making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn turned out to be an amazing adventure in my kitchen. The heat of the jalapenos pairs beautifully with the sweetness of corn, creating a delightful contrast. The cheese adds a creamy texture that balances the spiciness perfectly. Whether I'm serving these at a gathering or enjoying them as a snack, they never fail to impress. It's a perfect recipe for anyone looking to excite their taste buds with a twist on a classic appetizer!
Created by: Harper Collins
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 poppers
What You'll Need
Jalapeno Poppers
- 12 large jalapenos
- 1 cup corn (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Bacon bits (optional) for topping
- Cooking oil spray
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.
In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, corn, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Spoon the filling into each jalapeno half, packing it in generously. If desired, sprinkle some bacon bits on top.
Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and spray lightly with cooking oil. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Extra Tips
- For additional flavor, try adding some spices like cumin or paprika to the filling. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for varied taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 410mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 7g