Introduction
Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, I want to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes that never fails to impress – Spicy Mexican Corn Bites. These little bites of heaven are packed with bold flavors and a delightful kick that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself to a tasty snack, these corn bites are guaranteed to be a hit. So, let’s dive right in and discover the magic behind this irresistible dish!
Why You’ll Love This
I make these Spicy Mexican Corn Bites whenever I want to add a burst of flavor to my meals or surprise my guests with a unique appetizer. My family goes crazy for this dish because it combines the sweetness of corn with the spiciness of jalapenos and the creaminess of cheese. Plus, the crunchy texture is simply addictive! Trust me, once you try these bites, you’ll find yourself making them again and again.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delicious Spicy Mexican Corn Bites:
- 2 cups of corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 jalapeno pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
Feel free to add your own twist to the recipe by including optional ingredients like diced red bell pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the corn kernels, jalapeno pepper, grated cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, cilantro, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the corn mixture to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is heated through.
4. Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the corn mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.
5. Bake the corn bites in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from the oven and let the bites cool for a few minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm!
Notes
Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination. Pepper jack or Mexican blend cheese can add an extra layer of spiciness to the bites. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the jalapeno pepper with diced green bell pepper. These bites are versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative!
Variations
I’ve tried a few variations of this recipe, and one that didn’t work out so well was adding too much mayonnaise. It made the bites a bit too soggy and overpowering. So, I recommend sticking to the measurements mentioned in the recipe for the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Equipment
While a cookie scoop can make shaping the corn bites easier, you can always use a spoon if you don’t have one on hand. Don’t let the lack of a specific tool hold you back from enjoying these tasty treats!
Storage
Although these Spicy Mexican Corn Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, I must confess that in my house, they never last more than a day! They are just too irresistible to resist!
Serving Suggestions
I love serving these corn bites with a side of tangy salsa or a creamy avocado dip. The combination of flavors is simply divine! Feel free to get creative with your own serving ideas and let your taste buds guide you.
Pro Tips
Through trial and error, I’ve learned that keeping an eye on the corn bites while they’re in the oven is essential. They can go from perfectly golden to slightly burnt in a matter of minutes, so be sure to set a timer and check on them frequently. Trust me, you don’t want to miss out on that satisfying crunch!
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?
A: Absolutely! Frozen corn works just as well in this recipe. Simply thaw it before using and proceed with the rest of the instructions.
Q: Can I make these bites ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to enjoy these corn bites fresh out of the oven, you can prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I freeze the corn bites?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked corn bites in an airtight container for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat them in the oven until they are warmed through.
So there you have it, my friends – the recipe for these irresistibly delicious Spicy Mexican Corn Bites. I hope you have as much fun making them as I do, and that they bring a smile to your face with every bite. Now, go ahead and gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s get cooking!
SPICY MEXICAN CORN BITES
Delicious corn bites packed with bold flavors like jalapeno, cheddar cheese, and spices, perfect for parties or as a tasty snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 jalapeno pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, jalapeno pepper, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, cilantro, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
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Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the corn mixture and cook for about 5 minutes until cheese is melted.
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Drop spoonfuls of the corn mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake the corn bites at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
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Let the bites cool for a few minutes before serving warm.