This Jalapeño Popper Breakfast Casserole is a fun way to start your day! With creamy cheese, spicy jalapeños, and fluffy eggs, it’s a tasty treat that will wake up your taste buds.
Honestly, who can resist the cheesy goodness? I love making this for brunch gatherings—everyone enjoys the kick of spice, and it’s super easy to whip up. Breakfast has never been so exciting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: The foundation of any breakfast casserole! Use large eggs for fluffiness. If you need a vegan option, try using tofu or a chickpea flour mixture.
Cream Cheese: This adds that creamy richness that everyone loves. For a lighter version, you could use Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese; it works well too.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños bring heat and flavor. If you prefer less spice, try using bell peppers or green onions instead. Pickled jalapeños also offer a milder flavor with a nice tang.
Bacon: Crispy bacon is a must for that savory flavor! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, cooked mushrooms or smoked tempeh can provide a similar taste and texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a strong flavor that pairs perfectly with jalapeños. If you can’t find it, feel free to use Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for a different taste.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure My Casserole Sets Properly?
Baking times can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole! Here’s how to make sure it sets perfectly:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F for even cooking.
- Use a 9×9-inch dish for proper heat distribution. If you use a larger dish, check for doneness earlier.
- The casserole is done when it’s firm in the center; a toothpick test can help check for doneness.
- Let it cool slightly after baking—this helps it firm up even more for easier slicing.
With these tips, you’ll achieve a perfectly set casserole that’s ready to impress!
Jalapeño Popper Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 4-5 jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped (reserve some slices for topping)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (plus extra strips for topping)
- 1 cup fresh spinach or green chilies, chopped (optional but adds color and flavor)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Chopped fresh chives or green onions, for garnish
- Sour cream, for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and will need about 30-40 minutes of baking time. Overall, factor in a little cool down time, so you can expect your tasty breakfast to be ready in about 1 hour! Perfect for a weekend brunch with family or friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish. This will help everything not to stick!
2. Whisking the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack in the 8 large eggs. Add the heavy cream or milk along with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk everything together until it’s all well combined. This will create a lovely base for your casserole!
3. Add the Good Stuff:
Now it’s time to make it exciting! Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, cubed cream cheese, chopped jalapeños, crumbled bacon, and if you like, chopped spinach or green chilies for extra flavor and color. Mix gently to distribute everything evenly.
4. Pour and Spread:
Pour your egg mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it out evenly, making sure everything is well distributed.
5. Baking Time:
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is set in the center and the top is a beautiful golden-brown. Keep an eye on it as ovens vary!
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. This helps it to set a bit more. While it cools, prepare your toppings!
7. Add Toppings:
Top your casserole with extra crispy bacon strips, jalapeño slices, a dollop of sour cream, and sprinkle on the chopped chives or green onions for a burst of color and flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm. Enjoy this rich, spicy, and creamy breakfast that’s packed with cheesy and bacon goodness with every bite!
Get ready for the compliments—this delicious dish is sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Egg Whites Instead of Whole Eggs?
Yes, you can use egg whites for a lighter version! The texture will be slightly different, but aim for about 1.5 cups of egg whites to replace the whole eggs. You might want to add a little more cream or cheese for creaminess.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese work well. You could also use ricotta cheese for a different flavor but keep in mind it might alter the creaminess slightly.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. It makes for a quick breakfast throughout the week!
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish the night before, cover it, and refrigerate before baking. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge. Enjoy the convenience of ready-to-go breakfast!
