Gourmet Jalapeño Mac & Cheese

Posted on

Dinner

Difficulty

Prep time

Cooking time

Total time

Servings

Quick Breakfast Meal Prep for the Week: Save Time and Eat Healthy

Introduction:

Macaroni and cheese has long been a comfort food staple, with its roots deeply embedded in Southern cuisine and American culture. But like all great dishes, it has evolved over time, adapting to regional flavors and personal tastes. This particular recipe is a tribute to those who enjoy a little kick in their comfort food. The addition of jalapeños and Dijon mustard brings a Southwestern flair to the traditional dish, creating a harmonious blend of creamy richness and spicy heat. Whether you’re preparing this for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this Jalapeño Mac & Cheese is sure to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

  • 7 ounces elbow macaroni

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter

  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups whole milk

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

  • 4 slices canned jalapeño peppers, finely chopped

  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

  • Salt, to taste

  • A few dashes of hot sauce, to taste

  • 2 cups sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded

  • 1 cup dry bread crumbs

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions:

  1. Preheat & Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In the meantime, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil.

  2. Cook the Pasta: Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water. Cook it until it’s al dente, firm yet tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.

  3. Craft the Cheese Sauce: In a 3-quart saucepan, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour, creating a smooth roux. Let it cook for about 1 minute until it bubbles gently, releasing a nutty aroma.

  4. Enrich the Sauce: Slowly whisk in the milk, followed by the cream cheese, chopped jalapeños, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously, allowing the sauce to thicken over 5 minutes.

  5. Combine & Assemble: Once the sauce has thickened, fold in the cooked macaroni and shredded Cheddar cheese until the pasta is fully coated in the rich, creamy mixture. Transfer this to a 2-quart casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

  6. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, melted butter, and freshly chopped parsley. Sprinkle this over the macaroni and cheese, creating a delightful, crunchy topping.

  7. Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy.

  8. Serve: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving, letting the flavors meld together. For an extra kick, consider using a jalapeño-flavored cream cheese dip in place of the plain cream cheese.

Conclusion:

This Jalapeño Mac & Cheese recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a story on a plate. It speaks of the rich history of mac and cheese in American homes, while embracing the bold flavors of the Southwest. The combination of creamy, cheesy pasta with the spicy bite of jalapeños is a testament to how culinary traditions can evolve, blending comfort and innovation in every bite. Whether you’re revisiting your roots or exploring new tastes, this dish is a perfect example of how food can bring people together, one delicious forkful at a time. Enjoy this twist on a classic, and share the warmth with those you love!

Tags:

cooking / cookingtips / cuisine / food / healty food / recipes / street food

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment