Description
This creamy and spicy Jalapeño Popper Pasta Salad is a delicious twist on the classic jalapeño popper. With crispy bacon, sautéed jalapeños, and a cheesy, creamy sauce, this baked pasta salad is perfect as a side dish or a crowd-pleasing main course. The crunchy panko topping adds an irresistible texture!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta
- 5 slices bacon
- 2 jalapeños, diced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
- In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove from skillet, crumble, and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté diced jalapeños until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Add cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, and sautéed jalapeños to the cheese mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and melted butter.
- Spread pasta mixture in a baking dish and top with breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- If you prefer less spice, you can remove the seeds from the jalapeños before sautéing them.
- For an extra smoky flavor, use smoked cheddar or add a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce.
- This dish is great for potlucks and can be made ahead of time—just bake it just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes