Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
I love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn during the warmer months when fresh corn is in season. The combination of spicy jalapenos with sweet corn creates a delightful contrast that you can't resist. These poppers are not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly fun to make and share with friends. Whether it's a summer barbecue or a cozy movie night, these stuffed peppers are always a hit. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to prepare, ensuring that you can enjoy them in no time!
Trying my hand at Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn was such a fun experience! I was inspired by the rich flavors of summer, and I decided to use fresh corn to elevate these poppers. The combination of the sweet corn and creamy cheese filling balanced perfectly with the heat of the jalapeno, creating a snack that's bursting with flavor.
I found that parboiling the jalapenos before stuffing them made a noticeable difference. It softened the skins just enough to make them tender but still allowed that wonderful spicy kick to shine through. Coupled with a crispy breadcrumb topping, these poppers were the highlight of our gathering!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Unique twist with sweet corn and spicy jalapenos
- Creamy filling that complements the heat perfectly
- Great for gatherings or a quiet night in
Perfecting the Filling
The filling for these Jalapeno Poppers is key to achieving the perfect balance between creamy and crunchy. Cream cheese acts as the base, providing a rich and smooth texture, while the shredded cheddar adds a sharpness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the corn. Make sure to mix until the ingredients are thoroughly combined; this will ensure that each bite is consistently flavored.
For additional depth, consider incorporating herbs such as cilantro or chives into the filling. These herbs not only enhance the overall flavor but also add a fresh element that complements the heat of the jalapenos. If you prefer a spicier popper, feel free to fold in diced fresh jalapenos or a splash of hot sauce to the mix.
Baking Techniques
When baking your jalapeno poppers, keep an eye on the temperature and timing. Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) is crucial, as it allows the cream cheese to melt into a velvety texture while the jalapenos soften just right. Start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark; the poppers should turn golden brown with slightly crispy edges, indicating that they are ready to be enjoyed.
To achieve a more uniform bake, ensure that the poppers are placed cut-side up and spaced evenly on the baking sheet. If you notice uneven browning, rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking. This simple adjustment can lead to beautifully baked poppers that are evenly crisped.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you'll need to create these delicious Jalapeno Poppers.
Ingredients
- 12 jalapeno peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 cup fresh corn (cooked)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Having all your ingredients ready makes the assembly process smooth and easy!
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your Jalapeno Poppers!
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the jalapenos
Cut the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Parboil them in hot water for about 5 minutes, then drain and cool.
Make the filling
In a bowl, mix together the fresh corn, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Stuff the peppers
Fill each jalapeno half with the corn and cheese mixture, pressing lightly to pack it in.
Top with breadcrumbs
Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the stuffed poppers and drizzle with olive oil.
Bake the poppers
Place the stuffed jalapenos on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Serve
Let them cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers!
Now that you’ve made these delicious poppers, get ready to enjoy a flavorful treat!
Pro Tips
- For an extra twist, consider adding some cooked bacon bits to the filling for a smoky flavor.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you’re preparing these jalapeno poppers ahead of time, you can assemble them earlier in the day and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Covering them with plastic wrap will keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out. When baked straight from the fridge, they may need an extra 5 minutes in the oven, so keep an eye on them for signs of doneness.
Leftover poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. This will revive their crispy texture while warming the filling without overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
These Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn can be served as an appetizer or make a great side dish at gatherings. For a fun twist, try pairing them with various dipping sauces, such as ranch, guacamole, or a tangy barbecue sauce, to enhance the flavor experience. The cooling elements of these dips balance beautifully with the heat from the jalapenos.
For a more festive touch, slice some fresh lime to serve alongside the poppers. A squeeze of lime brings brightness to the dish and complements the sweetness of the corn and the spiciness of the jalapenos, making each bite even more delightful.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed jalapenos in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
→ What if I can’t find fresh corn?
Canned or frozen corn can be used as a substitute. Just make sure to drain and rinse if you use canned corn.
→ Are there any alternatives to cream cheese?
You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lighter or vegan option.
→ How spicy are these poppers?
The spiciness depends on the type of jalapenos used. You can reduce the heat by removing all the seeds and membranes.
Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
I love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn during the warmer months when fresh corn is in season. The combination of spicy jalapenos with sweet corn creates a delightful contrast that you can't resist. These poppers are not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly fun to make and share with friends. Whether it's a summer barbecue or a cozy movie night, these stuffed peppers are always a hit. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to prepare, ensuring that you can enjoy them in no time!
Created by: Georgia Lane
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 12 poppers
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 12 jalapeno peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 cup fresh corn (cooked)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cut the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Parboil them in hot water for about 5 minutes, then drain and cool.
In a bowl, mix together the fresh corn, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Fill each jalapeno half with the corn and cheese mixture, pressing lightly to pack it in.
Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the stuffed poppers and drizzle with olive oil.
Place the stuffed jalapenos on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Let them cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers!
Extra Tips
- For an extra twist, consider adding some cooked bacon bits to the filling for a smoky flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 8g