This Pepper Jack Potato Casserole is a deliciously creamy and cheesy dish with a kick of spice from the pepper jack cheese. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a rich cream sauce, then baked until bubbly and golden. It’s the perfect side dish for a hearty meal or even a potluck, bringing comfort and flavor to the table. The subtle heat from the pepper jack cheese adds just the right amount of spice without being overpowering.
Pepper Jack Potato Casserole
I love making this casserole because it’s the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. The creamy sauce and cheese make it rich and satisfying, while the pepper jack adds a little twist with its subtle heat. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish with roasted meats or enjoying it on its own, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, which makes it great for family gatherings or busy weeknights.
Pair this casserole with Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet Recipe or enjoy it alongside a lighter option like Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata Cheese Recipe for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe
- Creamy and Cheesy: This casserole is rich and cheesy, with layers of cream and melted cheese in every bite.
- Just the Right Amount of Spice: The pepper jack cheese adds a touch of heat that enhances the flavor without being too spicy.
- Perfect for Gatherings: It’s a great dish for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks—easy to make and always a hit.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it when ready, making it ideal for busy days.
Main Ingredients for Pepper Jack Potato Casserole
- Potatoes – Yukon Gold or russet potatoes work well for this casserole, as they hold up nicely during baking.
- Pepper Jack Cheese – The star of the dish, this cheese brings creamy texture with a hint of heat.
- Heavy Cream – Adds richness and creates a velvety sauce for the potatoes.
- Butter – Adds flavor and helps create the creamy sauce.
- Garlic and Onion – These aromatics enhance the flavor and add depth to the dish.
- Seasonings – Salt, pepper, and a touch of smoked paprika round out the flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pepper Jack Potato Casserole Recipe
Here’s how to make this creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy potato casserole step by step:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Tip: Greasing the dish ensures the casserole doesn’t stick and makes serving easier.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel 4-5 medium-sized potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet) and thinly slice them using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Aim for uniform slices about 1/8-inch thick for even cooking.
- Pro Tip: For extra crispy edges, soak the potato slices in cold water for 10-15 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat them dry before layering.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 cups of heavy cream and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat.
- Variation: If you want more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Layer the Potatoes and Cheese: Arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded pepper jack cheese on top. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, cream, and 1 more cup of cheese.
- Tip: For an extra cheesy casserole, you can sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of cheese on top before baking.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Pro Tip: Use a fork to test the potatoes. They should be tender when pierced but not falling apart.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serving Idea: This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a stand-alone vegetarian main course.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Make It Meatier: You can add cooked bacon or ham between the potato layers for an extra savory version of this casserole.
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap out the pepper jack for a milder cheese like cheddar or gouda if you want a less spicy version.
- How to Store: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore the cheesy goodness.
- How to Freeze: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Health Benefits of Pepper Jack Potato Casserole
This casserole, while indulgent, offers some nutritious benefits thanks to the potatoes and cheese. Potatoes are a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, while the pepper jack cheese provides calcium and protein. You can make this dish a bit lighter by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reducing the amount of cheese.
- High in Potassium: Potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health.
- Rich in Calcium: Cheese provides calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth.
- Customizable for Healthier Options: You can reduce the fat content by using lower-fat dairy or using less cheese without sacrificing flavor.
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