Jalapeno Popper Potatoes Recipe

Name: Jalapeno Popper Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: 3 pounds yukon gold potatoes, cubed; 8 slices bacon, chopped; 3 jalapenos, seeded and chopped; 8 ounces pimento cheese with cream cheese added, such as Palmetto cheese; 8 ounces pepper jack cheese, shredded.; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 10

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

3 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, cubed
8 slices bacon, chopped
3 jalapenos, seeded and chopped
8 ounces pimento cheese with cream cheese added (e.g., Palmetto cheese)
8 ounces pepper Jack cheese, shredded
1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375F (190C).

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the cubed potatoes. Return to a boil and cook until the potatoes are very tender, about 14 to 16 minutes.

3. Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a large bowl.

4. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Drain the bacon and set it aside, but reserve the bacon drippings in the pan.

5. Add the chopped jalapenos to the drippings in the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until softened, about 2 minutes.

6. Transfer the softened jalapenos to the bowl with the potatoes.

7. To the potatoes and jalapenos, add the reserved crispy bacon, pimento cheese, 1 1/2 cups of shredded pepper Jack cheese, and salt. Stir gently to combine note that the potatoes will break apart as you mix.

8. Transfer the potato mixture into a casserole dish and top with the remaining shredded pepper Jack cheese.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 361
Fat: 20g (26% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 9g (43% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 44mg (15% Daily Value)
Sodium: 541mg (24% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates: 30g (11% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 3g (12% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 2g
Protein: 15g (30% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 17mg (19% Daily Value)
Calcium: 277mg (21% Daily Value)
Iron: 2mg (10% Daily Value)
Potassium: 821mg (17% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The History and Cultural Significance of Jalapeno Popper Potatoes

Jalapeno Popper Potatoes, a spicy and cheesy twist on classic mashed potatoes, have their roots in American comfort food traditions. The concept of jalapeno poppers originally emerged in the United States during the late 20th century as an appetizer, where jalapenos were stuffed with cheese and sometimes wrapped in bacon. The adaptation to potatoes likely developed in Southern and Tex-Mex cuisines, combining two beloved elements: hearty potatoes and the bold, spicy flavors of jalapenos with creamy cheese. This fusion created a side dish that is both indulgent and flavorful, reflecting the inventive spirit of modern American home cooking.

Regional Characteristics

This dish is particularly popular in Southern states and in regions influenced by Tex-Mex cuisine. The use of bacon, jalapenos, and pepper jack cheese is characteristic of Southern comfort food, emphasizing richness and spice. In some areas, local variations may include different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, and regional peppers, which subtly alter the heat and flavor. In the South, the dish is often baked until the cheese is bubbly and golden, creating a visually appealing and hearty accompaniment to main courses.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While Jalapeno Popper Potatoes share similarities with traditional mashed potatoes, twice-baked potatoes, and jalapeno poppers, the combination of mashed or slightly broken-down Yukon gold potatoes with spicy peppers and multiple cheeses sets it apart. Unlike classic mashed potatoes, this dish integrates bacon fat and cheese directly into the potato, providing a layered richness. Compared to standard jalapeno poppers, which are small, individual appetizers, this dish scales to serve as a substantial side, offering both creaminess and a spicy kick.

Where It Is Typically Served

Jalapeno Popper Potatoes are commonly served at family gatherings, holiday dinners, and casual barbecue events. Their indulgent flavor makes them a favorite for occasions where side dishes are meant to complement grilled meats, roasted chicken, or pork. In restaurants, particularly in American-style diners and Southern eateries, they are often featured as a premium side dish, sometimes garnished with extra cheese or bacon crumbles for visual appeal.

Interesting Facts

The dish represents a creative twist on two classic comfort foodsmashed potatoes and jalapeno poppersblending textures and flavors in a single casserole.
Using Yukon gold potatoes contributes to a naturally creamy texture, which reduces the need for additional dairy, making the dish richer without being overly heavy.
Though spicy, the dish balances heat with the creaminess of cheeses like pimento and pepper jack, making it approachable even for those who enjoy mild heat.
Its popularity has grown in home cooking communities online, with variations incorporating smoked bacon, roasted jalapenos, or even a crunchy breadcrumb topping for added texture.
The dish reflects the broader American trend of loaded or stuffed sides, which elevate traditional vegetables and starches into indulgent, flavor-forward options.

FAQ about Jalapeno Popper Potatoes Recipe

Leftover Jalapeno Popper Potatoes should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a little milk or cream to help restore their creamy texture.

Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese. For example, cheddar or mozzarella could work in place of the pepper Jack cheese. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly, but it will still be delicious!

Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and mix them with the cheese, bacon, and jalapenos the day before. Simply cover the mixture and refrigerate it. When you're ready to bake, just preheat the oven and bake as instructed, though you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

If you can't find pimento cheese, you can make a substitute by combining cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and roasted red peppers. This will give you a similar creamy and tangy flavor.

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or even corn to give the dish more flavor and texture. Just make sure to sauté them to soften before mixing them into the potatoes.

To make the dish spicier, you can add extra jalapenos, or use a hotter pepper variety such as serrano peppers. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking for an additional kick.

Yes, you can substitute Yukon gold potatoes with russet potatoes, red potatoes, or any other variety of your choice. Yukon gold potatoes are creamy and perfect for mashing, but other potatoes will work as well depending on your texture preference.

It’s natural for some potatoes to fall apart when mixing, but if you find the mixture too loose, you can mash them a bit for a creamier consistency. Adding a splash of milk or cream will also help bring it all together.

Yes, you can make this recipe without bacon if you prefer a vegetarian version. For added flavor, you can use smoked paprika or a few tablespoons of olive oil to give the dish some depth.

To reheat Jalapeno Popper Potatoes, it's best to bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil, to prevent them from drying out. You can also microwave them, but be aware they may lose some of their crispiness.

Comments

Nathan Evans

04/09/2025 08:09:25 PM

Lowkey feeling like a pro.

My Hot Southern Mess

03/24/2025 08:17:18 PM

I want to begin with, I made this recipe as written. I used baby golds that I cubed and Palmetto pimiento cheese. I am confused with the recipe though. The recipe summary says the recipe is mashed potatoes, but the recipe directions do not call for any mashing. I think if the potatoes were mashed it would make the recipe better. As written there is nothing to make a sauce for the potatoes and the cheese separates. You are left with the grease/oil from the cheese and bacon. If you mashed the pimiento cheese and potatoes together (adding milk if needed) you are essentially making a cream cheese mashed potatoes. I really wanted to like this recipe but the execution fell a bit short.

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