If you’re searching for a comforting, cheesy, and slightly spicy side dish that will steal the show at your next meal, this Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with creamy sour cream, tangy mayonnaise, and the lively kick of Pepper Jack cheese, this casserole turns simple shredded hash browns into an irresistible dish. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a holiday gathering, the flavors blend perfectly to create a warm and satisfying experience every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe lies in its perfectly balanced yet straightforward ingredients. Each component plays a vital role from flavor to texture and color, ensuring every bite bursts with deliciousness.
- 6 cups shredded hash brown potatoes: The hearty base that absorbs all the creamy flavors beautifully.
- 2 cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese: Brings a creamy texture with a subtle spicy note that lifts the entire casserole.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and richness, keeping the dish moist and luscious.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Gives a velvety smoothness and enhances the overall creaminess.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the mixture just enough so it’s not too dense but still comforting.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Freshens the casserole with a mild onion flavor and vibrant green specks.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle savory depth that complements the cheese perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential to bring out all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth that pairs perfectly with the Pepper Jack cheese.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky aroma that gives the dish character and charm.
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping): For a crunchy, golden crust that adds delightful texture contrast.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping): Helps the topping brown beautifully and adds a rich buttery flavor.
How to Make Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your casserole won’t stick and will come out perfectly baked with ease. This simple step sets the foundation for a hassle-free cooking experience.
Step 2: Mix the Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shredded hash browns, Pepper Jack cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and milk. Add the chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir everything thoroughly until you get a smooth, well-blended mixture. This is where all those bold flavors come together, building the tasty heart of your casserole.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Evenly spread the mixture into your prepared baking dish, making sure the surface is as smooth as possible. If you want to add an irresistible crunch, sprinkle the crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the top. This not only adds texture but also a golden, flaky crust that makes this Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe extra special.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfect
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Look for that bubbly, golden top to know it’s ready. The baking time allows the flavors to marry and the cheese to melt beautifully, creating a warm, comforting dish that’s a true crowd-pleaser.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Let your casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking. This simple pause helps everything settle so when you serve, each scoop holds together nicely and the flavors have a chance to become even more pronounced.
How to Serve Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or a handful of diced jalapeños makes a great topping, adding bursts of color and a fresh bite that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy casserole. Crumbled crispy bacon is also a fabulous addition if you want to take the flavor to the next level.
Side Dishes
This Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted meats like chicken, steak, or pork. A crisp green salad or steamed veggies balance out the richness of the casserole, rounding out a satisfying meal that feels both comforting and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this casserole as individual portions in ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. It makes the presentation feel personal and festive, perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy dinners. You can also add a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream on top right before serving for an extra touch of flavor and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and avoid any unwanted flavors from other foods. When you’re ready, leftovers are just as delicious as the first serving.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before baking or after it’s fully cooked and cooled. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer-safe container. Frozen casseroles will keep for up to 2 months, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeks or unexpected guests.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator if possible. Warm it uncovered in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through and bubbly, about 20 to 30 minutes. This helps to preserve that crispy top and creamy inside rather than going soggy in the microwave.
FAQs
Can I use regular cheddar cheese instead of Pepper Jack?
Absolutely! While Pepper Jack adds a subtle spicy kick that defines this dish, substituting with mild or sharp cheddar will still give you a deliciously cheesy casserole. If you want some spice, consider adding a bit of diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne.
Is it necessary to thaw the shredded hash browns?
Yes, thawed hash browns blend better with the other ingredients and ensure a creamier texture. Using frozen directly can add excess moisture and make the casserole watery.
Can I add meat to this casserole?
Definitely! Cooked crumbled bacon, sausage, or diced ham are great add-ins that complement the cheesy, spicy flavor beautifully and make the dish heartier.
What’s the best way to get a crispy topping?
The buttery cracker or breadcrumb topping mixed with melted butter is key to achieving that crunch. Don’t skip it if you love a contrast of textures, but it’s optional if you prefer a soft casserole.
Can this dish be made vegan or dairy-free?
This recipe relies heavily on dairy products, but you can substitute vegan cheeses, plant-based sour cream, and mayonnaise to make it dairy-free and vegan-friendly. Keep in mind this will alter the flavor and texture slightly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so heartwarming about a Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe that brings family and friends together around the table. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this cheesy, slightly spicy casserole never fails to impress. Give it a try—you’re going to love how easy and rewarding it is to make this crowd-pleaser yours!
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Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pepper Jack Potato Casserole is a comforting and flavorful side dish featuring shredded hash brown potatoes mixed with spicy Pepper Jack cheese, creamy sour cream and mayonnaise, and a blend of seasonings. Topped with a buttery cracker crust, it’s baked to golden perfection and perfect for any holiday meal or family dinner. The casserole can also be made ahead for convenience.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups shredded hash brown potatoes (thawed if frozen)
- 2 cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Topping (Optional)
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the shredded hash brown potatoes, Pepper Jack cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until everything is fully incorporated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for even cooking.
- Add Topping: If using, combine the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until it is hot, bubbly, and the topping has turned golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider stirring in cooked crumbled bacon or diced jalapeños before baking.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and kept refrigerated, then baked fresh when ready to serve.
