If bold flavors and a dose of creamy, cheesy comfort are what you crave, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Keto Jalapeño Popper Casserole. Imagine succulent shredded chicken swaddled in tangy cream cheese, studded with fresh jalapeños for the perfect kick, and showered with bubbling melted cheese and smoky bacon. Not only is this dish a triumph for anyone following a keto lifestyle, but it also checks all the boxes for a weeknight dinner that’s easy, satisfying, and irresistibly delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simplicity shines in this recipe, with each ingredient playing a crucial role in the final dish’s mouthwatering combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re new to keto cooking or a casserole enthusiast, you’ll love how every element contributes depth, creaminess, and a touch of heat to this unforgettable bake.
- Bacon: Crisp, smoky bacon brings flavor and crunch; don’t skip this topping!
- Chicken Breasts: Shredded cooked chicken offers a protein-rich, hearty base.
- Garlic Powder: Adds mellow aromatic flavor without overpowering other ingredients.
- Onion Powder: Gives the casserole savory depth and background sweetness.
- Smoked Paprika: Lends subtle smokiness and a dash of color.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning, it wakes up all the flavors.
- Black Pepper: Adds gentle warmth and balances the richness.
- Cream Cheese: The ultimate binder, delivering irresistible creaminess.
- Sour Cream: Adds tang and softens the filling.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully and packs a flavorful bite.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: Ultra-melty and mild, perfect for stretching gooey strands.
- Fresh Jalapeños: Bring vibrant heat and a burst of color; deseed to control the spice.
- Green Onions (optional): For bright, fresh garnish—totally optional but highly recommended!
How to Make Keto Jalapeño Popper Casserole
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), setting yourself up for casserole success. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a little butter, so nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze.
Step 2: Season and Combine Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked, shredded chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This step ensures every bite of chicken is packed with flavor—foundation is key!
Step 3: Make the Creamy Base
In another bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses—this richly decadent mixture is what gives your Keto Jalapeño Popper Casserole its signature silky filling.
Step 4: Add Jalapeños and Bacon
Now for the fun part! Fold the cream cheese mixture into your seasoned chicken until fully combined, then gently mix in the diced jalapeños (remember—remove the seeds for less heat) and half of your crispy bacon. Every spoonful should have pops of color and texture.
Step 5: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Spread the mixture evenly into the greased baking dish, making sure it’s packed snug so the casserole bakes evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and the rest of your bacon to create a golden, bubbly topping.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop your casserole in the oven for about 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, lightly browned, and bubbling around the edges. The smell alone is enough to bring everyone running to the kitchen!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Take the bubbling casserole out and let it rest for a few minutes. Just before slicing, shower it with sliced green onions for a fresh, colorful finish—optional, but it adds a delightful crunch and brightness.
How to Serve Keto Jalapeño Popper Casserole
Garnishes
Don’t be shy with the toppings! A final flourish of freshly sliced green onions or even an extra sprinkle of sliced jalapeños (for the brave-hearted) highlights both color and flavor. Chopped cilantro or a dollop of extra sour cream can add an inviting touch.
Side Dishes
This casserole is so rich and satisfying, it truly shines alongside simple sides. Try serving it over cauliflower rice, a pile of roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad. It’s also a hit with avocado slices for extra creaminess and even more healthy fats!
Creative Ways to Present
For potlucks or parties, scoop the Keto Jalapeño Popper Casserole into individual ramekins for adorable single-serve portions. Or, cut the cooled casserole into neat squares and serve as hearty finger food—perfect for game nights or informal gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making reheated slices extra tasty for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing
This Keto Jalapeño Popper Casserole freezes wonderfully! Allow it to cool completely, slice or portion it if you like, and store in freezer-safe containers or tightly wrapped with foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, simply cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot throughout—about 15–20 minutes. For single portions, a quick zap in the microwave will do the trick. If you love a crispy top, uncover for the last few minutes in the oven.
FAQs
Can I make Keto Jalapeño Popper Casserole spicier?
Absolutely! Keep some jalapeño seeds in the mix for extra heat, or add a pinch of cayenne to the filling. You can also use pepper jack cheese for another layer of spice.
What’s the best way to cook and shred chicken for this casserole?
You can poach, bake, or even use leftover rotisserie chicken for ease. For shredding, while a fork works perfectly, a stand mixer on low speed makes quick work of warm, cooked chicken breasts!
Can I substitute the cream cheese or sour cream?
If you’re dairy-sensitive, try a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and swap full-fat Greek yogurt for sour cream. Just note the casserole may be a bit less rich but still delicious.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Replace chicken with cooked, diced cauliflower or a medley of sautéed mushrooms and zucchini for a tasty vegetarian twist—keep everything else the same for all that popper-inspired zing.
Can I prepare Keto Jalapeño Popper Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and keep it refrigerated. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the colder temperature.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to impress your family or need an easy go-to meal prep solution, the Keto Jalapeño Popper Casserole has you covered. It always gets rave reviews, brings a little heat to the table, and is so satisfying that no one misses the carbs. Give it a try soon—you just might end up with a new favorite in your rotation!
Print
Keto Jalapeño Popper Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Keto Jalapeño Popper Casserole that combines the flavors of jalapeño poppers with creamy cheese, chicken, and crispy bacon. This low-carb, gluten-free dish is a perfect main course for a flavorful dinner.
Ingredients
Bacon:
8 slices, chopped and cooked until crispy;
Chicken:
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless, cooked and shredded;
Spices:
1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ½ tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper;
Cheese Mixture:
8 oz cream cheese, softened, ½ cup sour cream, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese;
Jalapeños:
4 fresh, deseeded and diced;
Green Onions:
¼ cup sliced (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Chicken: Combine shredded chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese and sour cream, then add half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cream cheese mixture to the chicken, mix well, then fold in jalapeños and half of the cooked bacon.
- Bake: Transfer mixture to baking dish, spread evenly, top with remaining cheeses and bacon. Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions if desired before serving.
Notes
- For less heat, use fewer jalapeños or canned green chilies.
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add cauliflower rice underneath for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
