Pepper Jack Potato Casserole – Indulge yourself in the tantalizing goodness of Pepper Jack Potato Casserole! This side dish is sure to impress with its combination of pepper jack cheese, creamy soup, and crispy bacon.
The first time I made this mouth-watering Pepper Jack Potato Casserole it was a cold evening and my family was yearning for something comforting. My husband took a bite his eyes widened in surprise. He exclaimed, “This might just be the best casserole I’ve ever tasted!” Even our picky little one finished her plate and asked for seconds – a compliment indeed!
What makes this Pepper Jack Potato Casserole truly special?
The delectable blend of creamy and crispy textures is perfectly complemented by the fusion of pepper jack and Parmesan cheeses creating an experience that melts in your mouth. When you think it can’t get any better the addition of bacon brings in that smoky depth and proves once again that everything tastes even more delicious, with a sprinkle of bacon. This casserole isn’t just food; it’s an adventure served on a plate.
What You Need To Make This Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe?
Frozen hash browns: Choose a brand of hash browns, for consistent cooking and a delightful texture. No need to defrost them beforehand; their frozen state actually makes blending easier. Saves you time.
Pepper jack cheese: This cheese is famous for its spicy kick, which adds a flavor profile to our casserole. However, make sure to use freshly shredded pepper jack cheese for the melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Ritz crackers: These crackers are known for their buttery and crispy texture providing the contrast to the base of the casserole. If you can’t find Ritz crackers any buttery cracker will do, although there might be a difference in taste.
Cream of chicken soup: This ingredient acts as a creamy binder that envelops all the components of the casserole with its velvety embrace. You have the option to use cream of chicken soup or your preferred store brand.
Whipping cream: It’s what gives the casserole its creaminess. Don’t skimp on this ingredient; its richness is crucial for achieving that perfect bite.
Butter: When melted butter adds depth of flavor and an extra touch of richness to the dish. Opt for unsalted butter so that you can control the level of saltiness, in your creation.
Sour cream: Sour cream adds a touch of tanginess that perfectly balances the creaminess of the dish ensuring each bite is well rounded and not too heavy.
Parmesan cheese: When freshly grated Parmesan cheese brings an umami flavor that adds depth to the taste experience.
Onion and garlic powder: The unsung heroes, onion and garlic powder work behind the scenes to enhance the dish with their flavors giving it a boost.
Bacon: Cooked and chopped bacon goes beyond being a garnish; it infuses the casserole with undertones and bursts of savory goodness. It truly becomes a part of this dish’s character.
Paprika: Just a pinch of paprika provides a warmth and vibrant color that makes this dish visually appealing while tantalizing your taste buds.
Steps To Make Pepper Jack Potato Casserole:
Step 1: Preheat that oven of yours to a warm 400ºF. As you do that, think of the bubbling, cheesy goodness that’s soon to come. Now, gently spray your 9x13x2-inch baking dish with some cooking spray.
Step 2: In a bowl that’s probably seen countless memories, mix together hash browns, cream of chicken soup, pepper jack cheese, heavy cream, butter, sour cream, ¼ cup of grated parmesan, onion powder, garlic powder, and a touch of salt and pepper. Feel the harmony of the flavors mingling.
Step 3: With love and care, transfer this potato mix into your prepared dish.
Step 4: Now, let’s give it that final magical touch. Combine the crushed crackers, bacon, the rest of the Parmesan cheese (that’s ¾ cup), and paprika. As you sprinkle this over the potatoes, think of the crispy golden layer it’s going to form.
Step 5: Bake this beauty uncovered for about 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when you see it bubbly and singing its cheesy song.
Tip:
To enhance the taste more you can sauté a chopped onion and a couple of minced garlic cloves, in butter until they become transparent and release their delightful aroma. Then incorporate this mixture into the potatoes before baking them. The sautéed onion and garlic will add a dimension, to the casserole perfectly complementing its creamy texture and cheesy goodness. Moreover, the gentle caramelization of the onions will bring out a sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the spiciness of the pepper jack cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Sure you can definitely use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns. Just remember to boil them and then grate or thinly slice them.
Can I replace pepper jack with another type of cheese?
Certainly! You have the option to substitute pepper jack with types of cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella. However, keep in mind that the flavor might differ.
How long can I store the leftover casserole?
The leftover casserole can be safely stored in the refrigerator, for 3 to 4 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.
Pepper Jack Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 55 MINUTES
- Yield: 10 people 1x
Description
Immerse yourself in a realm where luscious indulgence meets a tantalizing zing with the Pepper Jack Potato Casserole. This dish is more than just your casserole; it’s a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The velvety smoothness of the cream intertwines with the hints of pepper jack cheese while the crunchy Ritz crackers create a crust that is enhanced by the smoky essence of bacon. Each bite offers a journey whisking you away, to a sanctuary of culinary bliss.
Ingredients
1 (30 to 32-ounces) bag frozen shredded hash browns
1 (10.5-ounces) can cream of chicken soup
2 c shredded pepper jack cheese
1½ c heavy whipping cream
½ c butter, melted
½ c sour cream
1 c grated Parmesan cheese, divided
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
½ c cooked, chopped bacon
1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400ºF. Make sure to grease a baking dish that measures 9x13x2 inches.
In a bowl combine hash browns, cream of chicken soup, pepper jack cheese, heavy cream, melted butter, sour cream, ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Mix everything well.
Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish.
Combine crushed crackers, with bacon bits, ¾ cup of Parmesan cheese and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the potato mixture in the baking dish.
Place the dish in the oven. Bake it uncovered for around 45 to 50 minutes or until it turns beautifully golden and starts to bubble. Enjoy!
Notes
For those on a gluten-free journey, don’t let this scrumptious Pepper Jack Potato Casserole pass you by. To adapt this classic to suit your needs, simply opt for a gluten-free cream of chicken soup – there are several delicious brands out there catering to gluten-free needs. Also, switch out the Ritz crackers for a gluten-free cracker of your choice. Remember to always check the labels on cheese and bacon for any hidden gluten sources or cross-contamination. With these tweaks, you can relish every bite without a hint of worry. Enjoy the harmony of flavors, guilt-free and gluten-free!
- Prep Time: 10 MINUTES
- Cook Time: 45 MINUTES
My name is Natasha and I am the owner of nodashofgluten.com, a blog dedicated to all kinds of recipes. On my website, you can find classic dishes, vegetarian delights, creative snacks, Gluten-free recipes, and desserts – all proving that cooking isn’t as hard as it seems! With easy-to-follow instructions and tips on how to make your meals even better, I strive to help everyone become master chefs in their own kitchen. Come join me at nodashofgluten.com for some delicious fun!
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