Cheesy Corn Poppers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These corn poppers are fun, flavorful, and incredibly addictive. They’re easy to make with simple ingredients and are great for game days, parties, or as a creative side dish. The combination of melty cheese and sweet corn with a touch of spice makes for the perfect poppable bite. You can fry, bake, or air fry them to suit your cooking style.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• Cream cheese (softened)
• All-purpose flour
• Cornmeal (optional, for extra crunch)
• Green onions or chives (chopped)
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Jalapeño (optional, finely chopped for heat)
• Eggs (for binding)
• Breadcrumbs or panko (for coating)
• Oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking/air frying)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, mix together corn, shredded cheese, cream cheese, green onions, jalapeño (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir in flour (and cornmeal, if using) until the mixture holds together. Chill in the fridge for 20–30 minutes for easier handling.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1–1½ inches wide).
4. In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, place breadcrumbs or panko.
5. Dip each ball in the egg, then roll in breadcrumbs until well coated.
6. To fry: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the poppers in batches for 2–3 minutes, or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

   To bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place poppers on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking spray and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

   To air fry: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Air fry in batches for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crispy.

7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20–24 poppers.
Prep time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or extra jalapeño for heat.
• Southwest Style: Mix in black beans, cumin, or diced red peppers.
• Cheese Mix: Use pepper jack, gouda, or Parmesan for a twist on flavor.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based cheese and egg substitutes.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake or air fry at 350°F until warmed through and crisp (about 5–8 minutes).
You can also freeze uncooked poppers on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the time.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, just thaw and drain it well before mixing. Fresh or canned corn also works.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, or a mix of cheeses all melt well and add great flavor.

How do I keep the poppers from falling apart?

Chilling the mixture helps it hold together. If it’s still too loose, add a little more flour or cheese.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, form and bread the poppers ahead, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook.

Are these spicy?

They can be! Use jalapeño for a mild kick or skip it for a kid-friendly version.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Definitely. Baking is a lighter option and still gives you a crisp texture, especially with panko breadcrumbs.

What dipping sauce goes well with them?

Try ranch, chipotle mayo, sour cream, or a spicy sriracha-lime sauce.

Can I use a different coating?

Crushed cornflakes, tortilla chips, or gluten-free crumbs make great alternatives.

How do I make them extra crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs and don’t skip the chilling step before cooking.

What can I serve these with?

Serve as an appetizer, side dish, or party snack alongside sliders, wings, or a salad.

Conclusion

Cheesy Corn Poppers are an irresistible bite-sized snack that combines crispy coating with gooey, cheesy corn filling. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, they deliver big flavor in every bite. Easy to make and always a hit, these poppers are the perfect addition to any snack table, gathering, or quick comfort food craving.

Cheesy Corn Poppers

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Cheesy Corn Poppers are crispy, golden bites packed with sweet corn, melty cheese, and savory seasonings. These irresistible snacks are perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you crave something crunchy and cheesy.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35–40 minutes
• Yield: 20–24 poppers
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Fried, Baked, or Air Fried
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen and thawed, or canned and drained)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup green onions or chives, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp cornmeal (optional)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
• Oil for frying or cooking spray for baking/air frying

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine corn, shredded cheese, cream cheese, green onions, jalapeño (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir in flour and cornmeal (if using) until the mixture holds together. Chill the mixture in the fridge for 20–30 minutes.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1–1½ inches in diameter).
4. Dip each ball into the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumbs or panko.
5. To fry: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry poppers in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
6. To bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place poppers on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
7. To air fry: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Air fry in batches for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crisp and golden.
8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

• Chill the mixture before rolling to help it hold together better.
• Use panko for extra crunch in baking or air frying methods.
• You can prepare and bread the poppers ahead of time and store in the fridge or freezer until ready to cook.
• Add extra flour or cheese if the mixture is too loose to roll.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 poppers
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 40mg