Jalapeno Corn Nuggets (2024)

Jalapeno Corn Nuggets are jalapenos and sweet corn mixed into a cheesy batter, then fried to a crispy golden brown. As soon as I tasted my Corn Nuggets (which you will also want to try) I knew I had to expand on that recipe for another variety–they are so good! But, watch out, these are an incredibly addictive snack or appetizer! And, you can bake these in the oven if you prefer a lighter version.

Jalapeno Corn Nuggets Ingredients & Substitutions

• Corn: I drained a can of sweet corn kernels, which is about 1 1/2 cups of kernels. If in season, fresh corn would be delicious. Or, if using frozen corn, let it thaw and drain it before adding it to the batter.
• Jalapeno Peppers: If you want more heat from the jalapeno peppers, leave the seeds in them when dicing. For less heat, seed the peppers.
• Cheese: Although I used sharp cheddar cheese for texture and extra flavor, you could use your favorite cheese. If you want to leave out the cheese, it will change the flavor and texture of the nuggets, so I do not recommend leaving it out.
• Dry Ingredients: All-purpose flour is mixed with the cheese, along with baking powder (for a puffy rise), garlic powder, salt, and sugar.
• Wet Ingredients: An egg, whole milk, and melted butter are added to the dry ingredients for the batter. I would stick with whole milk for moisture and richness. Lower-fat milk could change the taste and texture of the nuggets.
• Oil:Vegetable or canola oil is a smart choice for frying because of its high smoke point and neutral flavor. Once you have fried up the jalapeno corn nuggets, check outhow to clean used cooking oilbefore you throw it out!

Best Dipping Sauces For Jalapeno Corn Nuggets

These nuggets are delicious on their own, but I know that lots of people love to have dipping options. Here are some of my favorite options for dipping:

1. Ranch dressing (Once you try my homemade ranch, you will want to use it on lots of things!)
2. Creamy honey mustard sauce
3. Buffalo sauce
4. Queso dip
5. Sweet chili sauce
6. BBQ sauce
7. Aioli

Can I Make The Batter Ahead Of Time?

Sure! The batter can be mixed together (minus the corn kernels and jalapenos) and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best used within 24 hours so the baking powder doesn’t lose its effectiveness. Wait until making the nuggets to add the corn and jalapenos. Give the batter a good stir before frying or baking the nuggets.

Can I Make Jalapeno Corn Nuggets In An Air Fryer?

We thought cooking the nuggets in an air fryer would work, but when tested, the batter just kind of flew around in the basket. So, I would say, no, it is not recommended to cook the nuggets in the air fryer. It was worth a shot, though! Stick to frying or baking them in the oven.

Storing & Reheating Jalapeno Corn Nuggets

I like these nuggets hot and fresh, but you can store them for later if you have any leftovers. To store them, first, let the nuggets cool to room temperature. Next, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last up to 3 days. Reheat the nuggets in the oven until heated through and crispy. You can heat them up in the microwave, but the nuggets will be less crispy. You can also freeze the corn nuggets for up to a month or two. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen.