If you love the flavors of jalapeño poppers but want a dish that’s easier to serve for a family dinner or party, this Creamy Jalapeño Popper Casserole is the perfect solution. Packed with cheese, bacon, and just the right amount of heat, it’s creamy, comforting, and absolutely irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Easy to make: No need to individually stuff jalapeños—everything goes into one dish.
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Customizable: Add chicken, pasta, or tater tots for a more filling meal.
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Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for game day, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner.
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Keto-friendly options: With cream, cheese, and bacon, it’s naturally low-carb if you skip pasta or tater tots.
Ingredients
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup sour cream or heavy cream
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2 cups cooked shredded chicken (optional)
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3-4 jalapeño peppers, diced (remove seeds for milder heat)
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1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese, divided
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4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled, divided
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Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
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Optional: chopped green onions for garnish or tater tots for topping
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
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Prepare the creamy base: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with sour cream or heavy cream. Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder and mix until smooth.
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Mix in main ingredients: Stir in cooked chicken (if using), diced jalapeños, and three-quarters of the shredded cheese and bacon.
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Assemble the casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared dish. Top with the remaining cheese, bacon, and extra jalapeños. Add tater tots if using.
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Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20–30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden.
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Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve with rice, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Best Jalapeño Popper Casserole
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Adjust the heat: Remove seeds from jalapeños to reduce spiciness. For extra heat, leave the seeds in or add diced green chilies.
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Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
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Cheese options: Experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a combination of cheeses for different flavors.
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Protein options: Swap chicken for turkey or leave it out for a vegetarian version.
Variations
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Low-carb or Keto: Omit tater tots and pasta.
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With Pasta: Stir in cooked pasta before baking to make it heartier.
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Crunchy Topping: Use crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy layer.
Conclusion
This Creamy Jalapeño Popper Casserole combines all the best flavors of a jalapeño popper into one easy-to-make dish. It’s creamy, cheesy, slightly spicy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night at home, this casserole is guaranteed to become a favorite.