jalapeno mac & cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best jalapeno mac & cheese recipe

I’ve always been a fan of spicy food, and jalapeno mac & cheese is a perfect combination of creamy pasta and a kick of heat. It’s a dish that’s easy to make and customize to your taste. I first tried this recipe at a family gathering, and it was an instant hit with everyone.

My kids loved the spicy kick, and my husband appreciated the fact that it was a hearty, comforting meal. I’ve since made it for countless occasions, from weeknight dinners to holiday gatherings. It’s become a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share the recipe with you.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make. Simply cook some macaroni, mix it with a blend of cheeses, spices, and jalapenos, and bake until golden brown. You can also customize it to your taste by adding other ingredients like bacon or ham.

The key to this recipe is using high-quality cheese and spices to get the perfect flavor. I use a combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese for a rich, creamy flavor. As for the jalapenos, I like to use fresh ones for the best flavor.

If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can always reduce the number of jalapenos or substitute in some milder peppers like Anaheim or Poblano. Overall, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves spicy food or just wants a comforting meal that’s easy to make.

Jalapeno Mac and Cheese

4.6 from 570 votes

A creamy, cheesy mac and cheese with a spicy kick from fresh jalapenos. This comforting dish combines a rich cheese sauce with tender pasta and a crispy breadcrumb topping.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
2 fresh jalapenos, seeded and diced

For the Topping

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted unsalted butter
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
4Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
5Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
6Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
7Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until completely melted and smooth.
8Add the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and diced jalapenos, then mix well.
9Preheat the oven to 375°F.
10Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in the large pot, stirring until every piece is coated.
11Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
12In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese until the crumbs are moistened.
13Sprinkle this topping evenly over the mac and cheese.
14Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
15Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Medium saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 17g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

For a milder heat, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. You can also add cooked bacon or diced chicken for extra protein.

Watch Video Of How Jalapeno Mac and Cheese Works

This jalapeno mac & cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make and customize to your taste, and it’s packed with nutrients from the pasta and cheese.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it reheats perfectly – simply microwave individual servings until hot and bubbly. You can also reheat it on the stovetop by adding some milk or cream to loosen up the cheese sauce.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Jalapeno Mac and Cheese

Q: What type of cheese should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of cheese you prefer, but I recommend using a combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan for the best flavor.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by preparing the macaroni and cheese mixture up to 24 hours in advance.

Q: How do I store leftover jalapeno mac & cheese?

You can store leftover jalapeno mac & cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze this recipe by portioning out individual servings into freezer-safe containers or bags.

Q: What are some variations on this recipe?

Some variations on this recipe include adding cooked bacon or ham for added protein, using different types of cheese or spices to change up the flavor, or adding some steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots for added nutrition.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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