## Spice Up Dinner with Jalapeno Popper Casserole!
If you’re craving for something spicy, creamy, and irresistible, then this Jalapeno Popper Casserole is a perfect dish for you! Wrapped in the warmth of delightful flavors, this casserole promises an unforgettable dining experience.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
## Why Make This Recipe
This Jalapeno Popper Casserole is a treat for all the spice lovers out there. It’s not just a dish; it’s a gastronomic adventure that takes you through the richness of cream cheese, the tanginess of sour cream, the earthy flavor of shredded chicken, all swirling under the star of the show – jalapenos!
## How to Make Jalapeno Popper Casserole
This casserole is easy to prepare, doesn’t demand much of your time, and is wildly satisfying.
## Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 fresh jalapenos, sliced and deseeded (adjust for spice preference)
– 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
## Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheddar until smooth and creamy.
3. Fold in the shredded chicken, half of the crumbled bacon, and sliced jalapenos into the cream cheese mixture, mixing well.
4. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole.
6. Top with remaining bacon and a few extra slices of jalapeno for garnish.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
## How to Serve Jalapeno Popper Casserole
This casserole is perfect for family dinners or even game nights. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with both meat and vegetables. Serve it alongside tortilla chips or fresh green salad and enjoy the symphony of spicy and creamy notes.
## How to Store Jalapeno Popper Casserole
Store the leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last up to 3-4 days. When ready to serve again, heat it in a preheated oven at the same temperature for about 10 minutes.
## Tips to Make Jalapeno Popper Casserole
– Let the casserole cool for few minutes after it’s out of the oven, this will allow it to set and becomes easier to slice.
– If you prefer a crunchier top, you can broil it for the last few minutes of baking.
## Variation
For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken and bacon with diced bell peppers and black beans.
## FAQs
1. Can I make this dish in advance? Yes. Prepare the casserole and refrigerate it. When ready to eat, simply bake it in the oven.
2. Can I use canned jalapenos instead of fresh ones? Yes, but adjust the quantity as per your spice preference. Canned jalapenos tend to be milder in flavor.
3. How can I reduce the spice level in this dish? Remove the seeds and ribs of the jalapenos as they carry the most heat.