This Jalapeño Popper Breakfast Casserole is a tasty morning treat! Packed with creamy cheese, spicy jalapeños, and fluffy eggs, it’s perfect for starting your day with a kick.
I love making this when friends come over. It’s easy to prepare and always gets everyone smiling—even the ones who say they can’t handle spice! 🌶️
Plus, you can slice it up and enjoy it all week. Just heat it in the microwave for a quick breakfast that warms your belly and your spirit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: The foundation of this casserole, eggs provide fluffiness and structure. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use egg whites or a vegan egg substitute like chickpea flour mixed with water.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness, but you can replace it with any milk alternative like almond milk or oat milk if needed. Just ensure they are unsweetened for the best flavor.
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar is key for that bold flavor. If you prefer something milder, go for Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for an extra kick. Cream cheese is essential for creaminess but can be swapped with Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter version.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños offer a great kick! If you’re worried about the heat, use bell peppers or banana peppers instead. You can also add some canned jalapeños for a different flavor.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a lovely crunch. Turkey bacon or bacon alternatives like tempeh bacon can be used if you want a lighter or vegetarian option.
Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns are super convenient. If you prefer fresh potatoes, just peel and dice them into small pieces. Cook them slightly before adding to the casserole if you’re using fresh.
How Do You Ensure Your Casserole Doesn’t Turn Out Soggy?
The key to a successful casserole is to avoid excess moisture. Here’s how to keep it nice and fluffy:
- Make sure to thaw frozen hash browns well and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing.
- Using fresh veggies? Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove liquid.
- Avoid adding too much cream cheese; it can make it watery if overused.
By controlling moisture content, you’ll end up with a delightful, fluffy casserole that everyone will love!
Jalapeño Popper Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (plus extra for topping)
- 3-4 fresh jalapeños, sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 2 cups frozen hash browns (thawed) or diced potatoes
- Butter or cooking spray for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish requires about 15 minutes of preparation time and 40-45 minutes of baking time. So, in total, you can expect to spend around 1 hour or so making this delicious casserole. It’s worth every minute!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
First, get your oven ready by preheating it to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, take a 9×13-inch casserole dish and grease it with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large bowl, crack open the 12 eggs and add the cup of whole milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Use a whisk to beat everything together until it’s nice and blended.
3. Combine the Add-Ins:
Next, add in the softened cream cheese (cubed), shredded cheddar cheese (remember to set some aside for later), crumbled bacon, sliced jalapeños (save a few for the top), chopped green onions if you’re using them, and the thawed hash browns. Mix everything gently until it’s well combined.
4. Pour and Spread:
Take your mixture and pour it into the prepared casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the dish.
5. Add the Toppings:
Now, sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and the reserved jalapeños on top to make it extra delicious and appealing.
6. Bake!
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and let it bake uncovered for about 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are set, the top is golden, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for around 5 minutes. This helps it set a bit more. Slice it up and enjoy this warm, cheesy breakfast casserole!
This casserole combines creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and spicy jalapeños for a hearty and flavorful breakfast that’s perfect for feeding a group or enjoying leftovers!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and cover it tightly with foil. Refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to customize the casserole by adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just be sure to sauté any fresh veggies first to reduce moisture before adding them to the mix!
How Do You Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or pop it back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Can This Recipe Be Frozen?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole! After baking and completely cooling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for about 2-3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
