Cauliflower Jalapeno Popper Casserole: A Spicy, Cheesy, Low-Carb Delight
This Cauliflower Jalapeno Popper Casserole combines the bold flavors of jalapeño poppers with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh cauliflower for a delicious, low-carb twist on a classic party favorite. It’s creamy, cheesy, and just spicy enough to keep you coming back for more—perfect for gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal!
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 40min
- Total Time: 50 mins
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 6–9 jalapeños, halved & seeded
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 strips thick-cut bacon
- 1 ¼ cup cheddar cheese, divided
- 8 oz cream cheese (⅓ less fat)
- ½ cup light sour cream
- ¼ cup low-fat milk
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (or paprika)
- 3 cups fresh cauliflower florets (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roast chicken & jalapeños: Place chicken and jalapeños on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt. Arrange bacon on a separate sheet. Bake for 20-25 mins until bacon is crispy and chicken is cooked.
- Make cheese sauce: In a bowl, mix ¾ cup cheddar cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, milk, and cayenne.
- Prep toppings: Shred chicken, crumble bacon, and dice jalapeños. Reserve some bacon & jalapeños for topping.
- Combine: Stir shredded chicken, ¾ of the bacon, and ¾ of the jalapeños into the cheese sauce.
- Assemble: Spread cauliflower in a 9×12″ baking dish. Pour cheese mixture on top. Sprinkle with remaining ½ cup cheddar, bacon, and jalapeños.
- Bake for 20 mins until bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Adjust the heat: Use 6 jalapeños for a mild version or 9 for extra spice.
- Prep ahead: Cook the bacon and chicken in advance to save time.
- Crispy topping: Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for an extra golden finish.
- Extra kick? Drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: 550 kcal per serving
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 44g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g