Are you craving a comforting, cheesy macaroni and cheese but want to add a little zing? Then look no further! This jalapeno macaroni and cheese recipe delivers all the creamy, dreamy goodness of the classic dish with a fiery kick that will leave you wanting more. It's the perfect blend of comfort food and exciting flavor, making it an ideal easy recipe for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend treat. Get ready to elevate your macaroni and cheese game! This recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals without sacrificing deliciousness.
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)
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2-3 jalapenos, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the macaroni and set aside.
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Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms (this is your roux).
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Gradually whisk in the milk: Continue whisking constantly until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Reduce heat to low.
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Season and stir in cheeses: Stir in the salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Gradually add the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
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Add jalapenos: Stir in the minced jalapenos.
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Combine and bake: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. Pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
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Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
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Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Jalapeno Mac and Cheese:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is crucial for the best texture. Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the cheese sauce.
- Use quality cheese: The flavor of your macaroni and cheese heavily depends on the cheese you use. Opt for sharp cheddar and a flavorful Monterey Jack for the best results.
- Adjust the spice level: If you're not a fan of spicy food, start with one jalapeno and add more to taste. You can also remove the membranes and seeds from the jalapenos to reduce the heat.
- For a creamier sauce: Use a combination of whole milk and heavy cream for an extra rich and creamy texture.
Variations:
- Bacon Jalapeno Mac and Cheese: Add 1/2 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon for extra flavor and texture.
- Roasted Jalapeno Mac and Cheese: Roast the jalapenos before mincing them for a smoky flavor.
- Add other veggies: Experiment with adding other vegetables like roasted red peppers, caramelized onions, or broccoli.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Nutritional information should be calculated using a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and serving size.
This jalapeno macaroni and cheese recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful twist on a classic dish. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest – delicious, relatively quick, and easily adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy!