Jalapeno Popper Pasta Bake

Name: Jalapeno Popper Pasta Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1 cup jalapenos, diced (fresh or pickled); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

I absolutely love combining the comforting texture of pasta with the spicy kick of jalapenos. This Jalapeno Popper Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that brings together creamy cheese and zesty jalapenos in a way that makes my taste buds dance with joy. After experimenting with different ingredients, I found that a blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and spicy pepper jack creates the perfect creamy sauce that envelops the pasta and delivers that irresistible popper flavor. It's become a favorite in my household, perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-16T14:58:29.326Z

When I first made this Jalapeno Popper Pasta Bake, I wanted to capture the essence of a classic jalapeno popper but in a more comforting form. The contrast between the creamy cheese and the spicy jalapenos creates a delicious flavor profile that I can’t get enough of. I recommend using fresh jalapenos for a brighter kick, which really elevates the dish!

One of my favorite tricks is to mix in a dash of smoked paprika, which adds a delightful smoky flavor that balances out the heat. It’s sheer bliss when you take a bite and feel that creamy texture combined with the spicy crunch of the jalapenos. Trust me, this dish will have your guests coming back for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy cheese sauce that perfectly complements the heat of jalapenos
Comforting baked pasta that’s perfect for any occasion
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings or pasta variations

      

Choosing the Right Pasta

Penne pasta is an excellent choice for this Jalapeno Popper Pasta Bake due to its hollow shape, which holds the creamy cheese sauce beautifully. However, you could experiment with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli. These varieties can add a unique texture while still delivering that delicious cheesy goodness. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly—check the package instructions for al dente doneness, as different pasta types may vary.

If you're looking to make this dish gluten-free, you can substitute regular penne with gluten-free penne pasta. Many brands are available that maintain a similar texture and flavor profile, ensuring you won't miss out on the delectable bake. Just cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions, keeping an eye on it since gluten-free options can cook faster.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

One of the standout features of this recipe is its adaptability. For a smoky twist, consider adding diced smoked bacon into the cheese mixture, or mix in some crumbled chorizo with the jalapenos. These additions infuse the dish with a rich depth of flavor that beautifully complements the creaminess. Just remember to adjust the seasoning to balance out the extra salt from the bacon or sausage.

You might also want to experiment with cheese blends. Besides the sharp cheddar and spicy pepper jack, consider adding a bit of mozzarella for extra stretch and creaminess, or goat cheese for a tangy kick. Just be cautious about the moisture content—while creamy cheese enhances the dish, too much can lead to a soupy texture.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

This pasta bake is perfect for preparing in advance. You can assemble the dish a day ahead, cover it with foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, remove the foil and bake for a bit longer, around 35-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C), as it will take longer to heat through. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste.

For storage, any leftovers should be placed in an airtight container in the fridge and consumed within 3-4 days for the best quality. You can also freeze the assembled dish before baking it. Simply cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed for a comforting meal on a busy night.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the perfect Jalapeno Popper Pasta Bake:

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1 cup jalapenos, diced (fresh or pickled)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp olive oil

Once you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking!

Instructions

Here's how to assemble and bake your Jalapeno Popper Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, along with the diced jalapenos.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and gently fold until well combined, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated.

Bake the Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the pasta.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Jalapeno Popper Pasta Bake!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can incorporate crispy bacon bits or switch up the cheese varieties to your liking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your pasta bake turns out too dry, this might be caused by overbaking or using a cheese that doesn't melt well. To fix dryness, add a splash of milk or cream before serving. This will bring back some moisture and create a luscious texture right before you enjoy it. Alternatively, ensure all your ingredients are well-mixed and the pasta is evenly coated in the cheese sauce before baking.

On the flip side, if the dish is too creamy or runny, it could be due to the cheese blend or an excess of liquid ingredients. To resolve this, add more breadcrumbs to absorb the excess moisture. You can also bake the dish uncovered for the last few minutes to help reduce some of the liquid and achieve that desired golden top.

Serving Suggestions

This Jalapeno Popper Pasta Bake can be served as a standalone dish, but pairing it with a fresh side salad can elevate the meal. A simple mixed greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the bake. Additionally, serving it with a side of garlic bread can provide a delightful crunch and soak up all the cheesy goodness.

For a spicy kick, consider serving the dish with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce on top. You can also sprinkle some fresh cilantro or green onions as a garnish, adding a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor to your already impressive pasta bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and cheese mixture ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake it when ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of jalapenos?

If you prefer a milder taste, you can use bell peppers or swap for roasted red peppers.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I freeze this pasta bake?

Yes, this dish can be frozen. Assemble it and freeze before baking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.