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Creamy Jalapeño Popper Corn Casserole with Crispy Bacon

creamy jalapeño popper corn casserole - featured image

This creamy jalapeño popper corn casserole combines sweet corn, melty cheese, and a crispy bacon topping for the ultimate comfort food side dish. It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) sweet corn, drained (or 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels)
  • 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 34 medium jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely diced
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 medium jalapeño pepper, thinly sliced (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until golden and crispy (8-10 minutes). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Add eggs and whisk until fully incorporated.
  4. Fold in drained sweet corn, creamed corn, shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until evenly distributed.
  5. Transfer corn mixture into prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
  6. In a small bowl, combine cooked bacon, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and sliced jalapeños (if using). Toss until well mixed.
  7. Sprinkle bacon mixture evenly over casserole. Press down gently so it sticks.
  8. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until top is golden brown and edges are bubbly.
  9. Remove from oven and let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. For vegetarian, skip bacon or use plant-based bacon bits. Adjust jalapeño quantity for desired spice level. Room temperature cream cheese and eggs blend best. Bake uncovered for a crisp topping. Leftovers store well and flavors deepen overnight.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn casserole, jalapeño popper, bacon, holiday side, comfort food, cheesy casserole, easy casserole, potluck, creamy corn, spicy casserole