Description
Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a spicy kick for an unforgettable comfort dish. This delightful recipe features rich cheddar melted into tender elbow macaroni, enhanced by the vibrant zing of jalapeños and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy nights in, this mac and cheese will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes).
- Gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps; cook until thickened.
- Stir in sharp cheddar and cream cheese until melted smoothly.
- Mix in garlic powder, salt, pepper, and jalapeños until well combined.
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 75mg