Pepper Jack Mashed Potatoes Recipe – The Pioneer Woman
Enjoy rich, velvety potatoes baked to golden perfection with a dash of warming heat.
Introduction
Mashed potatoes are a beloved classic, but sometimes it’s fun to spice things up—literally. Enter Pepper Jack Mashed Potatoes: a creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy twist on the traditional favorite. This recipe, inspired by The Pioneer Woman, elevates the humble spud with Monterey Jack cheese, cream cheese, and a touch of cayenne and chili powder. The result? A show-stopping side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, stews, or holiday roasts and is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Recipe Overview
This Pepper Jack Mashed Potatoes recipe is designed for both ease and flavor. It combines simple, pantry-friendly ingredients with a bit of heat from pepper jack cheese and spices, balanced by the richness of cream cheese, butter, and half-and-half. The potatoes are baked until bubbly and golden, creating a side dish with both creamy interiors and irresistible crispy edges.
Ingredients
To make Pepper Jack Mashed Potatoes, you will need:
- 5 lbs. russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
- 6 garlic cloves, crushed and peeled
- 1½ tsp. kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1½ sticks salted butter, plus more for the baking dish
- 4 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature
- ¾ cup half-and-half
- ½ tsp. chili powder, plus more for sprinkling
- ½ tsp. cayenne pepper, plus more to taste
- 8 oz. pepper jack cheese, shredded (about 2 cups), divided
- Thinly sliced scallions, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Garlic
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Butter a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Place the peeled, chopped potatoes and crushed garlic cloves in a large pot. Cover with water by about 1 inch and season with salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 20 minutes.
Step 2: Mash and Season
Drain the potatoes and garlic well. Return them to the pot, off the heat, and add the butter, cream cheese, half-and-half, chili powder, 1½ teaspoons salt, cayenne, and half (about 1 cup) of the shredded pepper jack cheese. Mash until smooth using a potato masher. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and cayenne as needed.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mashed potatoes to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Top with the remaining pepper jack cheese and sprinkle a bit more chili powder on top. Bake until the cheese is melted and the potatoes are lightly browned around the edges, 25 to 30 minutes.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and garnish with thinly sliced scallions. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, spicy, cheesy goodness.
Tips for Success
- Texture Matters: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they mash up light and fluffy, but Yukon Golds will also work for a creamier texture.
- Cheese Selection: Pepper Jack is a mix of Monterey Jack cheese and spicy peppers, providing just enough heat without overpowering the dish. If you want more spice, add extra cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before baking, and you may need to add a few minutes to the baking time.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Variations
Avoid a rut by trying these tasty twists:
- Extra Cheesy: Add shredded cheddar, Gouda, or Parmesan for a sharper flavor.
- Loaded Potatoes: Stir in crumbled bacon or diced green chilies before baking.
- Herb Infusion: Fold in chopped fresh chives, parsley, or cilantro for extra freshness.
- Dairy Alternatives: Substitute half-and-half with whole milk, heavy cream, or a nondairy alternative for a lighter or vegan-friendly version.
Pairing Suggestions
Pepper Jack Mashed Potatoes are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Try serving them alongside:
- Grilled Steak or Chicken: The spicy, cheesy potatoes complement simply seasoned meats.
- BBQ Ribs or Pulled Pork: The bold flavors stand up to smoky, saucy barbecue.
- Roasted Turkey or Ham: A festive twist for holidays and celebrations.
- Vegetarian Entrees: Pair with roasted vegetables or a hearty bean stew for a satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information
| Servings | Calories (approx.) | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8-10 | 310 per serving | 7g | 30g | 20g |
Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredients and serving size.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes! If you prefer a milder flavor, try Colby, Monterey Jack, or mild cheddar. For something sharper or smokier, experiment with smoked Gouda, Gruyère, or feta.
Q: How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock (if any is called for), and ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly (some cheeses contain animal rennet).
Q: Can I freeze Pepper Jack Mashed Potatoes?
A: Yes, but texture may change slightly. Cool completely, store in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
Q: What if my potatoes are too watery after mashing?
A: Return the mashed potatoes to low heat and stir to evaporate excess moisture. Add more cheese or a bit of cornstarch to thicken, if necessary.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter, use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese, and swap half-and-half with a plant-based milk or cream alternative.
Why This Recipe Works
Pepper Jack Mashed Potatoes stand out because they combine familiar comfort with a welcome kick of heat. The garlic-infused potatoes, enriched with butter, cream cheese, and half-and-half, provide a lush base. The pepper jack cheese brings both creaminess and spice, while chili and cayenne powders round out the flavor profile. Baking the dish melds everything together and creates a tempting cheesy crust—making it hard to stop at just one serving.
More Comfort Food Recipes
- The Pioneer Woman’s Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The classic indulgent version—just potatoes, butter, cream cheese, and half-and-half.
- Spicy Jalapeño Popper Dip: A crowd-pleaser appetizer loaded with cheese and just the right amount of heat.
- Quick Homemade Refried Beans: Easy, creamy, and perfect for taco night.
Conclusion
Pepper Jack Mashed Potatoes are more than a side dish—they’re a conversation starter, a comfort food upgrade, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this recipe delivers creamy, cheesy, spicy goodness in every bite. So, go beyond the ordinary and let your spuds shine with this irresistible twist on a classic.
References
- https://simplifylivelove.com/pepper-jack-mashed-potatoes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a41994776/pepper-jack-mashed-potatoes-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a12083/delicious-creamy-mashed-potatoes/
- https://www.eatyourbooks.com/library/recipes/2916219/pepper-jack-mashed-potatoes
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g37384043/leftover-mashed-potatoes-recipes/
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