Creamy, crunchy, and irresistibly zesty, Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad brings bold flavors to the table in the most craveable way. It captures the heat of jalapeno poppers, the sweetness of summer corn, and the creaminess of a cheesy dip—all tossed into one satisfying side. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, game day, or just looking to spice up taco night, this salad delivers a crowd-pleasing kick every single time.

The mix of textures is what makes it shine: tender corn kernels, crisp bacon, creamy dressing, and a little crunch from fresh peppers. The heat can be as mellow or fiery as you like, and the recipe is easily adaptable for different palates. It’s comfort food that still feels fresh.

What Kind of Corn Works Best?

Fresh corn off the cob during peak season is unbeatable, but frozen or canned sweet corn can still give fantastic results year-round. If using fresh, grilling or roasting the corn adds a smoky depth that pairs perfectly with the jalapenos and bacon.

Ingredients for the Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad

Corn: The star ingredient that brings natural sweetness and body to the dish.

Jalapenos: Add just the right amount of heat. Slice thinly for flavor and a pop of green.

Bacon: Crispy and savory, it gives that iconic popper flavor punch.

Cream Cheese: Provides rich, smooth creaminess that mimics the popper filling.

Sour Cream or Mayo: Helps loosen the cream cheese and brings a slight tang.

Cheddar Cheese: Melty and bold, it adds sharp flavor depth.

Red Bell Pepper: For extra crunch and a pop of color that balances the heat.

Green Onion: Fresh bite and mild onion flavor to round everything out.

Cilantro (optional): A fresh, herbal note that brightens the whole dish.

How To Make the Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by frying the bacon until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled. This step can be done ahead of time and stored until you’re ready to assemble the salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

If using fresh corn, you can boil, grill, or sauté it. Let it cool before adding it to the mix. If using frozen, thaw and drain it well. For canned, simply rinse and drain.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and sour cream (or mayo) until smooth and creamy. This will be your luscious, tangy dressing base.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Add the corn, chopped jalapenos, diced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon into the bowl with the creamy base. Mix everything until well combined.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh cilantro and extra bacon or jalapeno slices for garnish if desired.

Serving and Storing Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad

This salad is best served cold, making it perfect for warm weather gatherings and potlucks. Serve it alongside grilled meats, tacos, burgers, or even as a dip with tortilla chips. It holds up beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days, but keep in mind that the bacon may soften slightly over time. For best results, store the bacon separately and mix it in just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep it up to 2 days in advance. Just add the bacon last-minute to keep it crisp.

How spicy is this salad?

It depends on your jalapenos. For milder heat, remove the seeds and membranes. You can also reduce the amount or swap in mild green chiles.

Can I use canned corn?

Absolutely. Just be sure to drain and rinse it thoroughly.

Is this salad served hot or cold?

It’s meant to be served chilled, though some enjoy it slightly warmed. Both ways are delicious.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise are great alternatives, depending on your preference.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Sure! Just leave out the bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad, you’ll definitely want to check out these other vibrant dishes:

Super Crunch Salad for a texture-packed bowl of freshness.
Honeycrisp Broccoli Salad with sweet apples and tangy dressing.
Refreshing Chili Lime Pineapple Cucumber Sticks for a spicy-sweet snackable side.
Classic Cream Cheese Corn Casserole if you’re into cozy, baked corn goodness.
Cream Cheese Chicken for a creamy main dish to pair with your salad.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so it’s easy to find for your next gathering.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you roast your corn or use canned? Did you go spicy or keep it mild?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions and tweaks welcome—let’s make your salad shine!

Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (for bacon and corn if fresh)
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
Category: Dinner

Print Recipe

Description

A creamy, cheesy, and zesty appetizer, Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad combines everything you love about jalapeno poppers with the ease of a scoopable, spoonable dish. It’s perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and game-day spreads. With sweet corn, crispy bacon, spicy jalapenos, and a rich dressing, it’s a standout side with bold flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned; drained if canned)

1/2 cup chopped jalapenos (adjust to taste)

6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup sour cream or mayonnaise

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1/4 cup sliced green onions

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
Prepare corn: if using fresh, grill or boil and let cool. If using frozen, thaw and drain. If canned, rinse and drain.
In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese with sour cream or mayonnaise until smooth.
Stir in corn, jalapenos, red bell pepper, green onions, cheddar cheese, and most of the crumbled bacon.
Mix well until evenly coated.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Garnish with remaining bacon, jalapeno slices, and cilantro just before serving.