Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn! The vibrant colors and tempting aroma really add excitement to any gathering. Each bite combines the heat of jalapeno with the sweetness of corn, resulting in a delightful balance of flavors. This recipe is not just about taste; it’s about creating memorable moments with friends and family. Plus, preparing these poppers is straightforward and fun, making it a fantastic choice for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. I can’t wait for you to try these tasty treats!
When I first experimented with Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn, I was pleasantly surprised by the flavor combination. The crunch of the jalapenos paired with the creamy, cheesy filling and sweet corn was a hit at my last get-together. I’ve even used different cheeses to change things up, like adding pepper jack for a spicier kick!
This dish is not only visually appealing but also a fantastic way to use fresh corn in the summer. I suggest grilling the jalapenos if you can; it adds a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste. Trust me, these poppers disappear quickly!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A deliciously unique filling that surprises and delights
- Perfect balance of heat and sweetness in every bite
- Great for parties, game nights, or casual snacking
Choosing the Right Jalapenos
When selecting jalapenos, look for firm, smooth-skinned peppers that are vibrant in color. Avoid any that are blemished or shriveled, as these may not have the best flavor or texture. The varying heat levels can depend on the size and ripeness of the jalapeno; smaller peppers tend to be spicier, while larger ones are milder. You might consider adapting the heat level by removing more or fewer seeds and membranes based on your preferences.
If you prefer a milder version, you can substitute jalapenos with banana peppers or poblano peppers, which provide a similar texture without the heat. This way, you can cater to friends and family with different spice tolerances while still enjoying the creamy filling that makes these poppers irresistible.
Cream Cheese and Cheese Combination
The cream cheese acts as a rich base for the filling, contributing a smooth and creamy texture that complements the crunch of the jalapeno. Mixing in shredded cheddar adds a depth of flavor; it melts beautifully and enhances the overall creaminess. If you want to experiment, feel free to substitute with other cheeses like pepper jack for added spice, or even goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing, as this allows for a smoother consistency that blends well with the other ingredients. If you find your filling too thick, consider adding a splash of milk to loosen it slightly, which will help with easy stuffing and give it a glossy finish.
Optimal Baking Tips
Baking the stuffed jalapenos at 375°F (190°C) gives them enough time to cook through without compromising the texture of the peppers. Look for visual cues like a golden, bubbly top and tender, but not mushy, jalapenos to know when they're perfectly done. If you prefer a deeper char on your peppers, you could increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
For an extra crispy finish, consider broiling the jalapenos for the last 2-3 minutes. Just watch closely, as they can quickly go from perfectly charred to burnt. After taking them out of the oven, let them cool slightly; this allows the filling to set up a bit, making them easier to handle as you serve.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn:
Ingredients
- 12 large jalapenos
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- Olive oil for drizzling
Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start making these delicious poppers!
Instructions
Here’s how to create your Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn:
Prepare the Jalapenos
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes, which are responsible for most of the heat.
Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, corn, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Stuff the Jalapenos
Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half generously with the cheese and corn mixture, packing it in well.
Add Topping (Optional)
If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the stuffed jalapenos for an extra crunch, and drizzle lightly with olive oil.
Bake
Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Serve
Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn!
Enjoy these poppers hot from the oven for best flavor!
Pro Tips
- To reduce the spice level, make sure to remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. Pair with a cooling dip like sour cream or guacamole for added enjoyment.
Serving Suggestions
These Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn make a fantastic appetizer, but they also shine as a side dish at BBQs or family reunions. Serve them with a drizzle of ranch dressing or a side of guacamole for a more refreshing contrast to the jalapeno heat. Pair them with a cold beer or a tangy margarita to enhance the flavors even further.
For an interesting twist, you could serve them on a bed of cilantro-lime rice or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. The sweetness of the corn filling pairs beautifully with any vibrant component, ensuring that your gatherings are as delicious as they are fun.
Make-Ahead and Storage
You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just keep it in an airtight container to retain its freshness. When you're ready to enjoy your poppers, simply stuff the jalapenos and bake them fresh. This makes it hassle-free to entertain at a moment's notice!
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, as microwaving can cause the poppers to become soggy. You can also freeze them before baking; just wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and they can last up to three months. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with the fillings! You can add cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor, or substitute the corn for diced bell peppers or even finely chopped spinach for a veggie twist. Each modification brings a unique taste while keeping the essence of the popper intact.
Consider serving them with different dipping sauces. A jalapeno aioli or a tangy BBQ sauce can amp up the flavor and provide a unique touch to this classic. Experiment with various cheese blends or add your favorite spices to the filling, making this recipe adaptable to your culinary whims.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these 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 cream cheese?
You can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for a lighter alternative.
→ Are these poppers gluten-free?
Yes, if you omit the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs, they will be gluten-free.
→ Can I freeze leftover poppers?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container.
Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn
I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn! The vibrant colors and tempting aroma really add excitement to any gathering. Each bite combines the heat of jalapeno with the sweetness of corn, resulting in a delightful balance of flavors. This recipe is not just about taste; it’s about creating memorable moments with friends and family. Plus, preparing these poppers is straightforward and fun, making it a fantastic choice for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. I can’t wait for you to try these tasty treats!
Created by: Aubrey Collins
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 poppers
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 12 large jalapenos
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- Olive oil for drizzling
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes, which are responsible for most of the heat.
In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, corn, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half generously with the cheese and corn mixture, packing it in well.
If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the stuffed jalapenos for an extra crunch, and drizzle lightly with olive oil.
Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers Stuffed with Corn!
Extra Tips
- To reduce the spice level, make sure to remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. Pair with a cooling dip like sour cream or guacamole for added enjoyment.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 7g