If you love the comforting warmth of a classic potato casserole but crave a little boldness in every bite, then this Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe is exactly what your taste buds have been waiting for. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with a wonderful pepper jack kick, this dish blends tender shredded hash browns with rich cream, crispy bacon, and a crunchy cracker topping. It’s like a cozy hug on your dinner plate that everyone at the table will fight over — perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you want to elevate simple ingredients into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet each plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and indulgence. From the sharp, melty pepper jack cheese that provides a subtle spice, to the crispy Ritz cracker topping that adds a satisfying crunch, every element is essential.
- Frozen shredded hash browns: The hearty base that gives this casserole its comforting potato goodness with a tender bite.
- Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds creamy richness and helps bind everything together perfectly.
- Pepper jack cheese: Delivers the signature spicy, gooey cheese flavor that makes this recipe unforgettable.
- Heavy whipping cream: Brings creaminess and smooth texture to the casserole.
- Melted butter: Enhances flavor and moisture, ensuring every bite is luscious.
- Sour cream: Adds a slight tanginess that brightens the dish beautifully.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Half mixed in for depth, and the rest sprinkled on top for a golden finish.
- Onion powder: Subtly boosts savory flavor without overpowering.
- Garlic powder: Adds an aromatic note that complements the cheese and potatoes.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate and balance all other flavors.
- Ritz crackers (crushed): Creates a crunchy, buttery topping that contrasts the creamy interior.
- Cooked chopped bacon: Provides a smoky, savory crunch that makes this casserole irresistible.
- Paprika: Sprinkled on top for a mild warmth and beautiful color.
How to Make Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 9x13x2-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure the casserole won’t stick and will come out cleanly after baking. This simple step saves you from any sticky mess and keeps your dish looking picture-perfect.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together the frozen shredded hash browns, unsalted cream of chicken soup, shredded pepper jack cheese, heavy whipping cream, melted butter, sour cream, one quarter cup of grated Parmesan cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is blended well so every forkful delivers those creamy, cheesy flavors evenly distributed throughout.
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes
Transfer the creamy potato mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This ensures even cooking and a uniform texture in every portion.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a separate small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, chopped cooked bacon, the remaining three quarters cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and paprika. This topping is the little crunchy surprise that makes the Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe stand out. Sprinkle it generously over the potato mixture to create a delectably golden crust.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. This baking step seals all those flavors together and creates the perfect contrast between a creamy interior and a crispy top.
How to Serve Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While the casserole is delicious on its own, adding a handful of freshly chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream on top right before serving can add a fresh zing and a beautiful pop of color. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives also lift the dish while complementing the rich flavors.
Side Dishes
This Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, which provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness. For a complete meal, you could serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak to satisfy hungry appetites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, bake the casserole in individual ramekins or muffin tins to create personal-sized servings that guests will love. You can also layer it in a clear glass casserole dish for a stunning visual of its cheesy, creamy layers topped with that irresistible golden crust.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for a tasty next-day meal or snack.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before baking or after it’s cooked. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
For perfectly warm leftovers, reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven covered with foil to prevent drying out. Heat until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again, usually about 20 minutes for a whole dish and less for single servings.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
While fresh potatoes can be used, frozen shredded hash browns save time and ensure an even texture throughout the casserole. If using fresh potatoes, make sure to peel, shred, and lightly blanch them beforehand to prevent excess moisture.
Is this recipe very spicy because of the pepper jack cheese?
The pepper jack cheese adds a gentle, pleasant warmth without overwhelming heat. It’s perfect for those who like a little kick but still want a creamy, comforting dish.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or replace it with a vegetarian bacon alternative or sautéed mushrooms to keep the smoky, savory notes intact.
What can I substitute for the Ritz crackers topping if I have dietary restrictions?
You can use crushed gluten-free crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed nuts like pecans or almonds for a crunchy topping that fits your dietary needs without sacrificing texture.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling hot. The internal temperature should be around 165 degrees Fahrenheit if you want to be precise.
Final Thoughts
This Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines creamy, cheesy, and crispy elements in the most delightful way. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, it’s a comforting dish that feels both special and effortlessly homemade. I promise, once you try it, it’ll become a new favorite in your recipe rotation — enjoy every flavorful bite!
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Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pepper Jack Potato Casserole is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish featuring shredded hash browns mixed with pepper jack cheese, cream of chicken soup, and a rich blend of heavy cream, butter, and sour cream. Topped with a crispy bacon and Ritz cracker crust, it’s baked to bubbly perfection, making it a perfect side for any meal or a hearty main.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (30 to 32-oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup butter, melted
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- ½ cup cooked chopped bacon
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 400ºF. Lightly spray a 9x13x2-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix the potato base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen shredded hash browns, unsalted cream of chicken soup, shredded pepper jack cheese, heavy whipping cream, melted butter, sour cream, ¼ cup of the grated Parmesan cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir all ingredients together until evenly blended.
- Transfer mixture to baking dish: Spoon the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out for uniform baking.
- Prepare the topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers, cooked chopped bacon, the remaining ¾ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and paprika. This topping adds a satisfying crunch and smoky flavor to the casserole.
- Assemble and bake: Sprinkle the cracker and bacon topping evenly over the potato mixture in the baking dish. Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the potato mixture.
- You can substitute bacon with cooked sausage or omit it for a vegetarian option.
- Ensure the hash browns are well thawed to avoid excess water in the casserole.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
