Jalapeno Popper Casserole

Jalapeño Popper Casserole Recipe

Jalapeño Popper Casserole is the perfect fusion of spicy, creamy, and cheesy goodness. This delightful dish brings together the flavors of classic jalapeño poppers in a convenient, family-friendly casserole. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works great for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings. With layers of shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, this casserole packs a punch of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

The history of jalapeño poppers can be traced back to Tex-Mex cuisine, where the love for bold, spicy flavors is prominent. Traditionally, jalapeño poppers are jalapeño peppers stuffed with cheese, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried until crispy. This casserole takes the essence of the beloved appetizer and transforms it into a hearty, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and serve.

Ingredients

For the Casserole Base:

• 4 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 6-8 fresh jalapeños, seeded and chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

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For the Topping:

• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

Preparing the Casserole Base

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Jalapeños

While the bacon is cooking, seed and chop the jalapeños. If you prefer a milder dish, remove all the seeds and membranes. For extra heat, leave some seeds in.

Step 4: Mix the Casserole Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, chopped jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese.

In a separate bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine and Spread

Add the cream cheese mixture to the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well combined. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

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Preparing the Topping

Step 6: Crush the Crackers

Place the Ritz crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan.

Step 7: Mix the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Stir until the crackers are evenly coated with butter.

Step 8: Top the Casserole

Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

Baking the Casserole

Step 9: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Step 10: Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to slice. Serve hot and enjoy the melty, spicy goodness.

Tips for the Perfect Jalapeño Popper Casserole

• Adjust the Heat: Customize the spiciness by adjusting the number of jalapeños and whether you include the seeds.
• Shredded Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option. Alternatively, you can cook and shred chicken breasts or thighs.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Serving Suggestions

This Jalapeño Popper Casserole pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the creamy, cheesy sauce. It also makes a fantastic dish for a potluck or party, as it can be easily doubled to feed a larger crowd.

Conclusion

The Jalapeño Popper Casserole is a modern twist on a classic appetizer, transforming it into a comforting and flavorful main dish. With its layers of shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, all enhanced by the heat of jalapeños, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. Its ease of preparation and delicious taste make it a standout dish for any meal.