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Jalapeño Popper Casserole

the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the irresistible flavors of creamy cheese, roasted jalapeños, and a savory casserole base. It has all the flavors you love from classic jalapeño poppers but in a delicious, hearty dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
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Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 6-8 fresh jalapeños seeded and diced (adjust to taste)
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs for topping
  • 2 tbsp melted butter for topping

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Oven mitts

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare the Jalapeños:
  3. If you want a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before dicing. Sauté the diced jalapeños in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, just until softened. Set aside.
  4. Make the Creamy Base:
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Whisk until smooth and well-mixed.
  6. Assemble the Casserole:
  7. Spread the shredded cooked chicken evenly over the bottom of the greased baking dish. Add the sautéed jalapeños on top of the chicken.
  8. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chicken and jalapeños, spreading it out evenly.
  9. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top.
  10. Add the Topping:
  11. In a small bowl, combine the crushed tortilla chips (or breadcrumbs) with the melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are coated. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer.
  12. Bake the Casserole:
  13. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
  14. Serve:
  15. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy as a main dish or as a side with a simple green salad or rice.
  16. Prep Time:
  17. 15 minutes
  18. Cook Time:
  19. 25 minutes
  20. Total Time:
  21. 40 minutes
  22. Nutrition (per serving):
  23. Calories: 380
  24. Fat: 28g
  25. Carbohydrates: 10g
  26. Protein: 23g
  27. Fiber: 1g
  28. Sugar: 2g
  29. Jalapeño Popper Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, with a delightful crunchy topping that adds texture. It’s the perfect dish for spice lovers who want the warmth of jalapeños paired with the richness of a casserole. Serve it for dinner, and enjoy the kick with every bite!