Jalapeño Popper Corn Casserole Recipe

Jalapeño Popper Corn Casserole is a delicious, crowd-pleasing side dish that combines the creamy texture of corn casserole with the spicy kick of jalapeños. This flavorful recipe features cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and crispy bacon for an irresistible comfort food experience. Perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or weeknight meals, this casserole is a guaranteed hit. The combination of creamy corn, savory cheese, and spicy jalapeños makes it a must-try for any family gathering or casual get-together. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a new twist on traditional corn casserole, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• ½ cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 stick unsalted butter, melted (½ cup)
• 1 (15 oz) can creamed style corn (do not drain)
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
• 1 egg
• 1 fresh jalapeño, seeded and diced (use two for more heat)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked crispy and chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a 2-quart baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, melted butter, and egg until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt, and baking powder until thoroughly mixed.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and beat until just combined. The batter will be thick.
5. Stir in the creamed corn, regular corn, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeño. Mix by hand until evenly combined.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
8. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and chopped bacon on top of the casserole. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Jalapeño Popper Corn Casserole combines the best of both worlds: the comforting, hearty flavors of corn casserole with a spicy kick from fresh jalapeños. The addition of creamy cream cheese and melty cheddar cheese makes this dish irresistibly smooth and savory. It’s perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or any casual meal where you need a crowd-pleasing side dish!

Tips:

• For Extra Spice: If you prefer a spicier casserole, use two jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Cheese Variation: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a more intense flavor.
• Texture: To ensure the casserole’s center is set properly, you can test doneness by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace cream cheese, butter, and cheese with their dairy-free counterparts to accommodate a dairy-free diet.
• Meat-Free: Omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version.

FAQs:

• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready to serve.
• Can I freeze this casserole?
  Yes, this casserole freezes well. Once baked and cooled, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until warmed through.

Serving:

This Jalapeño Popper Corn Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as part of a Tex-Mex meal. It’s also perfect alongside chili or barbecue.

Suggestions:

• Garnish with extra diced jalapeños or fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
• Serve with a side of sour cream to balance the heat from the jalapeños.