Description
Jalapeño corn nuggets are crispy, golden bites of sweet corn and spicy jalapeño, blended in a creamy batter and fried to perfection. These addictive little appetizers are crunchy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and make the perfect snack, side dish, or game-day favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen)
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Breading and Frying
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a bowl, mix corn, jalapeños, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
- Shape Nuggets: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and form into small balls or nuggets. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for 20–30 minutes to firm up.
- Set up Dredging Station: Prepare three bowls with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs respectively for coating the nuggets.
- Coat the Nuggets: Roll each chilled nugget first in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
- Heat Oil: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C) for frying.
- Fry Nuggets: Fry the nuggets in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the nuggets from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with ranch, chipotle mayo, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For a baked version, place nuggets on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through baking.
- You can also air fry the nuggets at 375°F for 10–12 minutes for a healthier alternative.
- Feel free to mix in chopped green onions or substitute cheddar cheese with pepper jack for an extra spicy kick.
