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Creamy Jalapeño Popper Creamed Corn Bake with Bacon & Cheese

jalapeño popper creamed corn bake - featured image

A comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole featuring sweet corn, creamy cheese, spicy jalapeños, and smoky bacon, baked until golden and bubbly. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any meal needing a flavorful side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) whole kernel corn, drained (or 3 cups fresh or frozen corn)
  • 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened (full-fat recommended)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 23 medium jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (preferably sharp)
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped (thick-cut preferred)
  • 2 tbsp green onions, sliced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs (optional, or gluten-free variety)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8 or 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy (about 7-8 minutes). Drain, cool, and chop. Reserve some for topping.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese, sour cream, and melted butter until smooth.
  4. Stir in drained whole kernel corn and creamed corn. If mixture is too runny, add 1 tbsp flour or cornstarch.
  5. Add chopped jalapeños, cheddar, Monterey Jack, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
  6. Fold in half the chopped bacon.
  7. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
  8. Sprinkle reserved bacon, green onions, and breadcrumbs (if using) over the top.
  9. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until edges are bubbling and top is golden brown.
  10. Check for doneness: center should be set but creamy. If needed, bake 5 more minutes. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  11. Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra green onions if desired.

Notes

For gluten-free, omit breadcrumbs or use gluten-free panko. For vegetarian, skip bacon and add smoked paprika or roasted red peppers. Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture. Shred your own cheese for smoother melting. Adjust jalapeño quantity for desired spice level. Assemble ahead and refrigerate; add 5 minutes to bake time. Leftovers keep 4 days refrigerated or 2 months frozen.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn bake, jalapeño popper, bacon, cheese, casserole, comfort food, easy side dish, potluck, creamed corn, spicy corn bake