This Jalapeño Popper Breakfast Casserole is a tasty way to kick-start your day! Packed with eggs, cheese, and spicy jalapeños, it’s a fun twist on a classic breakfast.
Don’t worry, it’s just spicy enough to wake you up, not burn you out! I love making this on weekends for family brunch—everyone always goes back for seconds. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Eggs are the core of this casserole, providing structure and richness. I recommend using large eggs for the best results. If you’re avoiding eggs, you can try silken tofu blended until smooth as a plant-based alternative.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds creaminess and helps bind the casserole. If you’re looking to lighten it up, consider low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese brings a sharp flavor that works great with the jalapeños. Feel free to switch it up with pepper jack cheese for an extra kick, or mozzarella for a milder option.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds crunch and a savory taste. If you want a vegetarian option, consider using crumbled tempeh bacon or leave it out completely for a lighter dish.
Jalapeños: They give it the pop! If you’re sensitive to heat, use poblano peppers instead, which have a mild flavor. Or, you can omit them for a simpler dish.
How Can You Ensure the Casserole is Creamy?
To achieve that creamy texture, the mixing of the cream cheese with the eggs is essential. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start by whisking the eggs and milk thoroughly to incorporate air, which makes for a fluffier casserole.
- When adding cream cheese, cut it into small cubes to help it blend better with the egg mixture. Mixing gently will help incorporate it without over-whipping.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking; letting it cool a few minutes allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing easier.
These tips will help you create a casserole that’s not just delicious but has the creamy texture everyone loves!
Jalapeño Popper Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, as preferred)
- 6 to 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (reserve some for topping)
- 2 to 3 jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat if desired)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Butter or cooking spray for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, followed by 35-40 minutes of baking. Plus, you’ll want to let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. So, in total, expect around 55-60 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious way to serve breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grease a 9×9 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier!
2. Whisk the Eggs:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until they are well combined. This mixture will form the base of your casserole and give it a lovely fluffy texture.
3. Add Cream Cheese:
Gently add the cubes of cream cheese into the egg mixture. Stir carefully so the cream cheese can soften as the mixture is stirred. This will help it blend nicely into the casserole while baking.
4. Mix in the Add-Ins:
Next, add in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, the crumbled bacon (remember to save about 1/4 cup for topping later), sliced jalapeños (saving a few for garnish), and the chopped green onions if you’re using them. Stir everything together until it’s nicely combined.
5. Season It Up:
Time to add some flavor! Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until evenly blended, making sure the seasonings are well distributed throughout.
6. Pour and Layer:
Pour the egg mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Now, take the remaining shredded cheddar cheese, reserved jalapeño slices, and crumbled bacon, and sprinkle them evenly over the top. This will create a delicious crust as it bakes!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s set in the center and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-baking.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This is the perfect time to slice it up! Serve warm, and if you like, garnish with additional jalapeño slices for extra flair.
Enjoy this deliciously creamy, cheesy, and spicy breakfast casserole that captures the essence of jalapeño poppers in every bite!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before by mixing all the ingredients and pouring them into the baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it in the oven without needing to wait for the ingredients to come to room temperature.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, which will still provide creaminess but with fewer calories. Just make sure to blend it well for a smooth consistency!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm them in the oven until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Breakfast Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole! Just make sure it cools completely before slicing it into portions. Wrap individual servings in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
