Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole – Creamy, Cheesy & Loaded with Flavor

If you’re looking for a dish that combines the rich creaminess of potatoes with the zesty heat of jalapeños and the savory crunch of bacon, Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole is the answer. This indulgent casserole is not only an explosion of flavors but also incredibly easy to make, making it the perfect side dish or even a main course for your next gathering or weeknight dinner.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making this delicious Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole. From step-by-step instructions to tips for customization, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

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What is Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole?

The Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole takes the concept of the classic jalapeño popper and turns it into a creamy, cheesy, and spicy casserole. This dish is filled with tender russet potatoes, fresh jalapeños, turkey bacon, and a variety of cheeses—cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese. The result is a perfectly balanced combination of flavors with just the right amount of heat, richness, and crunch.

While traditional jalapeño poppers are typically served as appetizers, this casserole transforms the beloved flavor into a hearty, comforting main or side dish. It’s great for serving a crowd or just enjoying a cozy dinner at home.

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Ingredients for Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole

For this dish, you’ll need a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to make Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole:

For the Casserole:

• 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 6 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 3 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

These ingredients combine to create a rich, spicy casserole that’s sure to satisfy everyone at your table. Now, let’s look at how to prepare this dish.

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Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will ensure your casserole doesn’t stick to the pan during baking.

Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the diced russet potatoes and cook until they’re tender, about 10–12 minutes. Once they’re soft, drain the potatoes and transfer them to the prepared baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add the Jalapeños and Bacon

Fold the finely chopped jalapeños and half of the crumbled turkey bacon into the cheese mixture. The jalapeños bring a spicy kick, while the bacon adds savory flavor and a satisfying crunch.

Step 4: Combine and Mix

Pour the cheese mixture over the cooked potatoes in the baking dish. Gently stir to ensure all the potatoes are evenly coated in the creamy cheese mixture. Once the potatoes are well covered, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. This extra layer of cheese will melt beautifully during baking, adding to the richness of the casserole.

Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Mix them until the breadcrumbs are coated, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole. This will give the dish a crispy, golden finish.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. The smell of melting cheese and crispy breadcrumbs will fill your kitchen, and you’ll know it’s almost ready!

Step 7: Final Touches

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then, sprinkle the remaining crumbled turkey bacon and freshly chopped parsley over the top as a garnish. This adds a fresh pop of color and extra flavor.

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How to Serve Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole

Once your Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole has cooled slightly, it’s time to serve! This dish can be served as a main course or as a side dish alongside other comforting favorites. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even a simple green salad to balance out the richness.

Pro tip: For an added twist, drizzle some sour cream or ranch dressing on top before serving for even more creamy goodness!

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Customizing Your Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole

One of the best parts about this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Add more heat: If you love spicy food, try adding more jalapeños or incorporating a few teaspoons of hot sauce into the cheese mixture.
• Change the cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Pepper jack cheese adds a great kick, or you could try a blend of Mexican cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Use different meats: While turkey bacon gives a lighter, leaner option, you can easily substitute with regular bacon or even cooked sausage for more richness.
• Make it vegetarian: Simply omit the bacon, and you have a delicious vegetarian version of this casserole that still packs plenty of flavor.

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Nutritional Information for Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole

This casserole is a rich and indulgent dish, but it’s also fairly balanced in terms of nutrition. Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving (3 squares)
• Carbs: 28g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g

It’s not a light dish, but it’s definitely worth every bite!

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FAQs About Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and cook as directed.

2. Can I freeze Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole?

Absolutely! This casserole freezes very well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through.

3. Can I substitute the russet potatoes with another type of potato?

While russet potatoes give the casserole its ideal texture, you can substitute with Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly creamier texture or red potatoes for a firmer bite.

4. How spicy is Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole?

The level of spice is mild to moderate, depending on how much jalapeño you use. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can remove the seeds from the jalapeños or use fewer of them. For a spicier dish, leave the seeds in or add extra jalapeños.

5. Can I make this casserole without bacon?

Yes! You can omit the bacon for a vegetarian version or substitute it with a plant-based bacon alternative.

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Conclusion

Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, spicy, and savory flavors that will leave everyone at the table craving more. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a holiday meal, or just need a delicious comfort food dish for a weeknight, this casserole checks all the boxes.

By following the simple steps and customizing it to your preferences, you can create a dish that’s uniquely yours. Plus, with options for make-ahead and freezing, it’s a practical dish that can save you time in the kitchen.

Enjoy your Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole as a satisfying main dish or a flavorful side, and watch it become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Happy cooking!

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