Are you craving a comforting, cheesy mac and cheese but want to elevate it beyond the ordinary? This Chili White Cheddar Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a delightful twist on a classic, combining the creamy goodness of mac and cheese with a subtle kick of chili. It's the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and cheesy – guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 (15-ounce) can chili, drained (your favorite kind will work!)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
- Season and simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened. Reduce heat to low and stir in salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Add the cheese: Stir in the white cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine with chili: Stir in the drained chili.
- Mix with pasta: Add the cooked macaroni and stir to combine.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Chili White Cheddar Mac and Cheese:
- Use good quality cheese: The flavor of your mac and cheese heavily depends on the cheese you use. Opt for high-quality white cheddar and Monterey Jack for the best results.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Overcooked pasta will become mushy and ruin the texture of your mac and cheese. Cook it al dente for the best results.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder mac and cheese, omit the cayenne pepper. For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder.
- Make it ahead: This mac and cheese can be made ahead of time and reheated. It's even better the next day!
Variations:
- Add protein: Boost the protein content by adding cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or ground beef to the mac and cheese.
- Spice it up: Incorporate different types of chili for varying heat levels or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Veggie boost: Add some roasted vegetables like diced bell peppers or broccoli for a healthier twist.
- Different cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, Gruyere, or even a blend of your favorites.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This delicious and easy chili white cheddar mac and cheese is a perfect example of transforming a simple dish into something extraordinary with just a few additions. It’s a quick dinner idea that’s both healthy and satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful recipe!