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Welcome to a dish that is guaranteed to steal the spotlight at any gathering – Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad! If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of jalapeno poppers with the sweet crunch of corn, then this salad is a must-try. Packed with flavor and a hint of heat from fresh jalapenos, each spoonful of this salad is a party in your mouth.
This Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad is my go-to recipe for summer cookouts and family reunions. The creamy base of sour cream, mayonnaise, and cream cheese perfectly complements the smoky bacon bits that add a delightful crunch to every bite. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a topping for your favorite grilled meats, this salad is sure to disappear fast, leaving everyone craving for more.
With a winning combination of jalapenos, corn, bacon, and cheese, this salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you scoop it up with tortilla chips, fold it into quesadillas, or serve it alongside your favorite BBQ dishes, the Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad is a true crowd-pleaser that will have your guests coming back for seconds and asking for the recipe.
Quick Benefits
- Creamy and cheesy with a kick of heat from jalapenos, providing a flavorful twist on classic jalapeno poppers
- Versatile dish that can be served as a party appetizer, side dish, or topping for various main dishes
- Stores well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a convenient make-ahead option for gatherings
- Easily customizable by adjusting the spice level, using alternative ingredients like Greek yogurt, or omitting bacon to suit different dietary preferences
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad Recipe Recipe
- If you love the classic flavors of jalapeno poppers, this recipe is a delightful twist that packs all the creamy, cheesy goodness with a kick of heat from jalapenos in a refreshing salad form.
- Perfect for parties or summer cookouts, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone going back for seconds, making it an excellent dish for gatherings and potlucks.
- The addition of bacon brings a salty crunch to every bite, adding an irresistible savory element that both kids and adults will love, making it a hit at holiday BBQs.
- This salad is versatile; it can be served with tortilla chips, as a side for grilled meats, spooned over baked potatoes, or folded into quesadillas, providing a variety of ways to enjoy it.
- The salad stores well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a convenient make-ahead option for busy days, family gatherings, or meal prepping for the week.
- You can easily customize this recipe by adjusting the spice level, substituting ingredients for dietary preferences, or experimenting with different cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
- With the flavors of spicy jalapenos, creamy cheeses, and crispy bacon perfectly balanced, this salad captures the essence of a classic jalapeno popper in a refreshing and satisfying dish that will become a favorite in your summer menu rotation.
Ingredients for Spicy Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad Recipe
Vegetables
- 2 jalapeno peppers, deseeded and finely chopped
- 4 cups cooked corn kernels, cooled
Dairy
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 56 grams cream cheese, softened
Spices
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Meat
- 120 grams cooked bacon, chopped
Pro Tips for Spicy Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad Recipe
Pro tip 1: To add an extra layer of flavor to the salad, consider grilling the corn before adding it to the mix. Grilling will enhance the sweetness of the corn and add a delicious smoky char that complements the creamy and spicy elements of the dish.
Pro tip 2: For a more pronounced smoky flavor, you can also add a touch of smoked paprika to the seasoning mix. This will elevate the overall taste profile of the salad and give it a unique twist that will impress your guests.
Pro tip 3: If you want to make this salad ahead of time, prepare all the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge. Mix everything together just before serving to maintain the freshness and crunch of the bacon topping. This way, you can enjoy a stress-free preparation process and still serve a delicious and crowd-pleasing dish.
How to Make Spicy Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Jalapenos
Cut the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise, remove seeds and membranes, and finely chop the flesh.
Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients
Combine chopped jalapenos, cooked corn, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream cheese, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, shredded cheddar, shredded pepper jack, chopped bacon, and season with salt and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Mix and Chill
Mix all ingredients until well combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours to enhance flavors before serving.
Storage Tips
To store the Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad, ensure it is tightly covered and kept in the refrigerator. The salad can be stored for up to three days, but it is recommended to give it a good stir before serving again to mix the flavors. However, note that the bacon may soften over time. For a fresh and crispy bacon texture in leftovers, reserve some extra bacon to sprinkle on top before serving.
It is not advisable to freeze the salad because the creamy base may break when thawed. For the best results, store the salad in the fridge and enjoy it within a few days. If you want to make any variations or substitutions, such as using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or omitting the bacon for a vegetarian version, feel free to customize the recipe based on your preferences. Whether served with tortilla chips, grilled meats, or incorporated into other dishes like quesadillas, this Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad is sure to be a hit at your gatherings and events.
Ingredient Substitutions
If fresh corn is not available, you can use drained canned corn or thawed frozen corn as convenient alternatives. Just ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before adding to the salad. This substitution maintains the sweet corn flavor and texture in the dish.
For a lighter version of the salad, consider using half Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. This swap reduces the richness while still providing a creamy base for the salad. It’s a great option if you prefer a lighter dressing without compromising on the tangy flavor.
If you prefer a vegetarian version or want to omit bacon, you can use crumbled turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon alternatives. Alternatively, you can simply skip the bacon altogether for a meatless option. This substitution allows you to cater to different dietary preferences while still enjoying the creamy and flavorful elements of the salad.
Serving Suggestions
For a fun and creative serving suggestion, try layering the Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad in individual tortilla chip cups for a bite-sized appetizer that’s perfect for parties. Simply scoop the salad into the cups and top with a sprinkle of extra bacon and cheese for an added crunch. Your guests will love the portable and flavorful twist on classic jalapeno poppers!
Another idea is to use the Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad as a filling for grilled quesadillas. Spread a generous amount of the salad between two tortillas along with some extra cheese, then grill until golden and crispy on both sides. Slice into wedges and serve with a dollop of sour cream or salsa on the side for a delicious and crowd-pleasing meal or snack option. The creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors of the salad will shine in this handheld delight!
FAQs for Spicy Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad Recipe
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time and stores beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Just keep it tightly covered and give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?
Yes, both canned (drained) and thawed frozen corn work well in this recipe and offer convenience when fresh corn isn’t available.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can skip the bacon for a vegetarian version. Alternatively, you can add more bell pepper for extra crunch and color.
How can I adjust the spice level of the salad?
The spice level of the salad depends on the number of jalapenos used and whether the seeds are removed. Removing the seeds will give a milder, more pleasant heat. Adjust the amount of jalapenos according to your spice preference.
Conclusion
I hope this recipe for Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad becomes a staple at your gatherings, just like it has at mine. The blend of creamy cheeses, crispy bacon, and spicy jalapenos creates a flavor explosion that keeps everyone coming back for more. The versatility of this salad makes it a perfect accompaniment to a variety of main dishes or even a delicious topping for other dishes.
Remember, you can always customize this Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad to suit your preferences. Whether you want to make it lighter by using Greek yogurt, add extra crunch with more bell peppers, or make it vegetarian-friendly by omitting the bacon, the possibilities are endless. Get creative in the kitchen and make this recipe your own!
So, next time you’re planning a picnic, BBQ, or potluck, whip up a batch of this Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad and watch it disappear within minutes. Your friends and family will be impressed by the bold flavors and creamy texture of this dish. Enjoy every scoop of this irresistible salad and let it be the star of your next gathering!
Spicy Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad Recipe
Creamy and cheesy Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad – a spicy twist on a classic dish, perfect for summer parties and BBQs.
Prep Time20 Minutes
Cook Time~ undefined
Total Time20 Minutes
CuisineAmerican
Skill LevelEasy
Servings8 Servings (One large bowl)
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 jalapeno peppers, deseeded and finely chopped
- 4 cups cooked corn kernels, cooled
Dairy
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 56 grams cream cheese, softened
Spices
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Meat
- 120 grams cooked bacon, chopped
Instructions
-
Prepare Jalapenos: Cut the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise, remove seeds and membranes, and finely chop the flesh.
-
Combine Salad Ingredients: Combine chopped jalapenos, cooked corn, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream cheese, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, shredded cheddar, shredded pepper jack, chopped bacon, and season with salt and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
-
Mix and Chill: Mix all ingredients until well combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours to enhance flavors before serving.
