Jalapeno Popper Casserole

Ingredients

16 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 cup sour cream

2 cups Mexican Blend Cheese, shredded

1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled

2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded

6 jalapeno peppers, deseeded and diced

2 pounds tater tots

6 green onions, sliced thinly

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425*

Line a greased casserole dish with the tater tots

Bake for 15 minutes

While the tater tots are cooking, fry the bacon and crumble when done

Dice the peppers and the onions

In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, the cream cheese, 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheese, ¾ of the bacon, the diced jalapeno peppers and most of the sliced green onions

Mix in the shredded chicken and stir again

Stir to thoroughly combine thoroughly

Spread the jalapeno mixture over the tater tots

Top with the remaining cheese, sprinkle the remaining bacon on top and the rest of the sliced green onions over the top

Bake at 425* for 20 minutes.

Enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I adjust the spiciness of this casserole?

Yes, you can adjust the spiciness by either using fewer jalapeno peppers or removing the seeds and membranes from the peppers, which can reduce their heat.

You can also add more jalapenos if you prefer a spicier dish.

Can I make this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole in advance and refrigerate it.

Simply assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate.

When ready to serve, bake it in the preheated oven as directed in the recipe.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

While the recipe calls for Mexican Blend Cheese, you can certainly use your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses.

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your choice will work well.

Can I make this casserole without bacon for a vegetarian version?

Absolutely, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon.

You might want to add a bit more seasoning or other ingredients to compensate for the flavor that the bacon provides.

Can I use frozen tater tots for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen tater tots.

Just follow the baking instructions on the tater tots’ packaging, and once they’re partially cooked, proceed with the recipe as described.

This can save you time in the kitchen.

Is there a way to reduce the calorie content of this casserole?

Yes, you can make this dish slightly lighter by using reduced-fat or low-fat versions of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese.

You can also consider using turkey bacon or leaner cuts of bacon for a lower-fat option.

Can I make this casserole without meat?

Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and chicken to create a vegetarian version of this casserole.

The cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese will still provide a creamy and flavorful base.

How can I make this casserole less spicy?

To reduce the spiciness, consider using fewer jalapeno peppers or removing the seeds and membranes from the peppers, which can reduce their heat.

Additionally, you can substitute milder pepper varieties, such as bell peppers or poblano peppers.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance and freeze it?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole in advance and freeze it.

Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake it directly from frozen, allowing for additional cooking time.

What side dishes go well with this casserole?

This casserole is quite rich, so lighter side dishes like a green salad, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables can complement it nicely.

These side dishes can provide a contrast to the richness of the casserole and balance the meal.