Description
These Jalapeño Corn Nuggets are a deliciously crispy appetizer featuring a creamy blend of sweet corn, spicy jalapeños, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfectly seasoned and coated in crunchy breadcrumbs, they are fried to golden perfection and served hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Ideal for parties, snacks, or a fun side dish, these nuggets bring a spicy, cheesy bite that’s sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels, thawed if frozen
- 2 jalapeños, finely diced with seeds removed for less heat
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs for coating
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the corn kernels, diced jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, and softened cream cheese. Stir together until well mixed to create a flavorful base.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to evenly distribute the spices and seasoning.
- Form Batter: Gradually add the dry mixture to the corn and cheese mixture, stirring until combined. Then mix in the beaten egg and milk to form a thick batter that can hold its shape when scooped.
- Chill Mixture: Place the batter in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes to firm up, which helps the nuggets maintain their shape during frying.
- Shape Nuggets: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the chilled batter and shape each into small nuggets. Roll each nugget thoroughly in breadcrumbs to ensure a crispy coating.
- Heat Oil: In a deep pan or skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) for frying. Use a thermometer for accuracy to maintain even cooking.
- Fry Nuggets: Fry the nuggets in batches for 2 to 3 minutes, turning as needed so they become evenly golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried nuggets with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with ranch dressing or spicy mayo for dipping.
Notes
- For extra heat, leave some jalapeño seeds in the mixture.
- You can freeze the shaped nuggets before frying for convenient make-ahead snacks.
- For a lighter version, air-fry nuggets at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes instead of deep frying.
