About This Recipe
A creamy, cheesy, and spicy casserole with ground beef and jalapeños, perfect for a keto-friendly meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Ground beef
- 1 cup Cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup Canned diced jalapeños, drained
- ½ cup Mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- ½ tsp Paprika
- To taste Salt and black pepper
- ¼ cup Green onions, chopped
Kitchen Tools
Instructions
Chef's Tips
- For a smoother texture, use an electric mixer to combine the cream cheese and other ingredients for the creamy base.
- If you don’t have diced jalapeños on hand, you can use fresh jalapeños. Just make sure to dice them finely and remove the seeds and membranes if you prefer a milder flavor.
- To prevent the cheese from browning too quickly, you can tent the casserole with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Draining the Ground Beef: Failing to drain the ground beef properly will result in a greasy casserole.
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: Using cold cream cheese will make it difficult to create a smooth and creamy base. Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing.
- Overbaking the Casserole: Overbaking the casserole can result in a dry and rubbery texture. Keep a close eye on it and remove it from the oven when the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Not Seasoning Properly: Make sure to season the creamy base and ground beef adequately. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Variations
- Bacon Jalapeño Popper Casserole: Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the casserole for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Chicken Jalapeño Popper Casserole: Substitute the ground beef with shredded cooked chicken.
- Vegetarian Jalapeño Popper Casserole: Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option. Add some chopped bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and texture.
- Spicy Jalapeño Popper Casserole: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy base for an extra kick.
- Jalapeño Popper Casserole with Breadcrumbs: Top the casserole with buttered breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy topping.
Storage & Freezing
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Conclusion
This creamy jalapeño popper casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Its ease of preparation, combined with its incredible flavor and keto-friendly nature, makes it a winner on all fronts. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Yes, you can freeze the casserole after baking. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
The spiciness of the casserole depends on the amount of jalapeños you use. You can adjust the amount to your liking. Removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños will also reduce the spiciness.