Tired of the same old mac and cheese? Craving something a little different, something… fiesta-licious? Then get ready to spice up your weeknight dinner routine with this unbelievably delicious Mexican Mac & Cheese recipe! This dish takes the comforting classic and adds a zesty, southwestern twist that's guaranteed to become a family favorite. It’s a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a vibrant kick of Mexican flavors – the best of both worlds! Prepare for a quick and easy meal that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying.
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
- 1/2 cup chopped roasted corn
- 1/2 cup chopped pickled jalapeños (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
- 1 ripe avocado, diced (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Stir in the salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Gradually add the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Stir in the cooked macaroni, roasted corn, and jalapeños. Mix well to combine. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro and diced avocado (optional).
Tips for the Best Mexican Mac & Cheese:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of jalapeños and cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder flavor, use less or omit them altogether. For extra heat, add a pinch of chili powder.
- Cheese please: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A blend of pepper jack and queso fresco would also be delicious.
- Fresh is best: Using fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- Make it a meal: Add some cooked chicken, ground beef, or black beans for a heartier dish.
Variations:
- Vegetarian: Omit the chicken or beef and add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Spicy: Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema for extra creaminess.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings. The nutritional information below is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This Mexican Mac & Cheese recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or even a fun family meal. It’s a delicious and satisfying dish that's sure to please everyone. Enjoy!