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If you love classic jalapeno poppers but want something you can scoop up at a party or summer cookout, this jalapeno popper corn salad is your answer. It is creamy cheesy and loaded with corn plus a kick of heat from jalapenos. Every bite is packed with all the flavors of your favorite bar snack but built for a crowd and much easier to make ahead.
Every time I serve this salad people go back for seconds. The first time I tried it was at a family reunion and it instantly became my signature dish for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- Jalapeno peppers: bring heat and freshness. Look for firm glossy jalapenos and remove the seeds for less heat.
- Corn kernels: deliver a pop of sweetness. Fresh or frozen both work but roasted corn adds extra flavor.
- Sour cream: gives rich tanginess. Choose full fat for creamier texture.
- Mayonnaise: brings the salad together with smoothbody and helps the dressing coat the corn.
- Cream cheese: adds that signature jalapeno popper flavor. Soften before mixing for easy blending.
- Cumin: adds earthy warmth and rounds out the flavors. Use freshly ground for best taste.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: boost savory flavors evenly throughout.
- Chili powder: provides a gentle smoky kick. Check that it is fresh for the best aroma.
- Paprika: gives smoky color and depth.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: melts into the salad and offers rich sharpness.
- Shredded pepper jack cheese: adds a little extra heat and creamy melt.
- Cooked chopped bacon: gives smoky crunch and makes each bite irresistible. Go for thick cut if possible.
- Salt and pepper: for final seasoning. Fresh cracked black pepper makes a difference here.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Chop the Jalapenos:
- Start by slicing the jalapeno peppers lengthwise and scooping out the seeds and membranes if you want it milder. Dice them as fine as you can for even heat and distribution across every forkful.
- Mix the Dressing:
- In a large bowl blend together the sour cream mayonnaise and softened cream cheese using a whisk or a spoon. Take your time to make sure the cream cheese is lump free and everything is silky smooth.
- Build the Salad:
- Add the cooled corn kernels chopped jalapenos cumin garlic powder onion powder chili powder and paprika to the bowl. Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheeses and most of the bacon saving a little for garnish. Stir everything fully so all the corn is evenly coated in the creamy dressing.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to blend and the salad to set up thicker. Before serving taste and add salt and pepper as needed and finish with a sprinkle of remaining bacon.
Bacon is my favorite element here and brings a craveworthy salty crunch in every spoonful. Kids and adults both gravitate to the crispy toppings and creamy corn so this dish always disappears fast at our holiday BBQs.
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Storage Tips
This salad stores beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Keep it tightly covered and give it a good stir before serving again. The bacon does soften over time so save a little extra bacon to sprinkle fresh on top if you want crispy bites for leftovers. I would not recommend freezing as the creamy base may break when thawed.
Ingredient Substitutions
No fresh corn Try frozen corn thawed completely and patted dry. Want to cut richness Use half Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter version. You can skip the bacon for a vegetarian take or add more bell pepper for extra crunch and color.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is great served with tortilla chips for scooping or as a cool side for grilled chicken ribs or pulled pork sandwiches. Sometimes I spoon it over baked potatoes or fold it into quesadillas for a fun twist. At summer picnics it always draws a crowd.
Jalapeno Popper Origins
Jalapeno poppers started as a bar appetizer in the American Southwest and became a party favorite all across the country. The blend of spicy creamy and crispy is irresistible in just about every format. When I wanted something with those flavors that travels well this salad version was a game changer for my summer party menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How spicy is this salad?
The spice level depends on the number of jalapenos and whether seeds are removed. Removing seeds gives a mild, pleasant heat.
- → Can I use canned or frozen corn?
Yes, both canned (drained) and thawed frozen corn work well and offer convenience when fresh corn isn't available.
- → Is there a substitution for bacon?
Crumbled turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon alternatives work, or you may omit bacon for a meatless version.
- → How long should the salad chill?
Chill for at least 2 hours to help flavors meld and achieve the best creamy consistency before serving.
- → Which cheeses work best?
Shredded cheddar and pepper jack offer the right mix of flavor, but you can try Monterey Jack or Colby as substitutes.