Description
Jalapeño cornbread poppers deliver a spicy southern comfort twist that combines creamy cheese, zesty peppers, and golden cornbread in one irresistible bite. Crispy exteriors give way to molten centers, making these poppers an addictive appetizer you’ll crave at every gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Cornbread and Filling Ingredients:
- 1 box cornbread mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup (79 milliliters) milk
- 1 1/2 cups (170 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (150 grams) canned corn, drained
Pepper Ingredients:
- 10 large jalapeno peppers, halved and seeded
Additional Ingredients:
- Cooking spray or parchment paper
Instructions
- Prepare your culinary workspace by heating the oven to 350F (180C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or applying a light cooking spray coating.
- Carefully halve each jalapeno lengthwise, meticulously removing seeds and inner membranes to moderate the pepper’s intense heat, then arrange prepared peppers on a clean surface.
- Craft the cornbread foundation by mixing the boxed cornbread blend according to package guidelines, incorporating eggs and milk. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and diced canned corn until the mixture achieves a uniform consistency.
- Generously fill each jalapeno cavity with the cornbread mixture, ensuring sufficient space for expansion during baking and maintaining a slightly mounded appearance.
- Enhance the poppers by sprinkling additional cheddar cheese across the tops, creating a golden, melty crown for each stuffed pepper.
- Transfer the assembled jalapeno poppers to the prepared baking sheet, positioning them with ample spacing. Slide into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cornbread turns golden and sets firmly.
- Allow the poppers to rest and slightly cool for a few minutes after removing from the oven. Plate and serve alongside ranch dressing or your preferred dipping condiment for a delightful appetizer experience.
Notes
- Customize heat levels by leaving some seeds in jalapeños for extra spiciness or completely removing them for a milder version.
- Replace regular cheddar with pepper jack cheese to amplify the spicy kick and add more complex flavor profiles.
- Use gluten-free cornbread mix to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delicious poppers.
- Prep jalapeños carefully using gloves to prevent skin irritation from capsaicin, especially if you have sensitive skin or are prone to burning sensations.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 40
- Calories: 91 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg