Jalapeño Cornbread Popper: A Fiery Twist on Southern Comfort Food
Craving something spicy, cheesy, and wildly satisfying? These Jalapeño Cornbread Poppers bring the heat with a soft, golden cornbread filling nestled inside fresh jalapeño peppers—topped with melty cheddar cheese and baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting game night, a backyard BBQ, or just want a bold snack that wakes up your taste buds, this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
- 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
Medium to large size, firm and smooth - 1 box (15 oz) cornbread mix
Choose your favorite brand (sweet or savory) - 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Sharp cheddar adds a rich flavor, but any meltable cheese works - 1 cup canned corn, drained
Optional: use fresh corn for extra crunch - (Optional: egg, milk, or oil as required by the cornbread mix instructions)
Instructions (Step-by-Step with Pro Tips):
Step 1: Prep Your Oven & Baking Tray
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Jalapeños
- Rinse and dry the jalapeños.
- Slice each one lengthwise, creating 2 halves.
- Carefully remove the seeds and white membranes using a spoon or paring knife.
Pro Tip: Use kitchen gloves to avoid burning your hands from the capsaicin in jalapeños. Never touch your eyes afterward!
Step 3: Mix the Cornbread Batter
- In a large bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to the package directions.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese and the drained corn kernels.
- Mix just until combined. The batter should be thick but spreadable.
Step 4: Fill the Jalapeños
- Using a spoon, fill each jalapeño half with the cornbread batter. Don’t overfill—the batter will puff up in the oven.
- Top each piece with a sprinkle of the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
- Arrange the stuffed jalapeños on your prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cornbread is puffed, golden, and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cheese should be melted and slightly crispy on top.
Step 6: Let Cool & Serve
- Let the poppers cool for about 5 minutes before serving—they will be very hot inside.
- Serve with sour cream, ranch dressing, or a creamy avocado dip.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor:
- Crispy bacon bits inside the batter
- Green onions or chives for freshness
- A dollop of cream cheese under the cornbread layer for creaminess
- Mix in smoked paprika or cumin for a smoky kick
Perfect For:
- Game day appetizers
- Summer BBQs
- Potlucks or holiday gatherings
- Spicy snack cravings!