Description
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy delight of Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese, a zesty twist on a classic comfort food. This dish features perfectly cooked elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich cheese sauce infused with fresh jalapeños for a satisfying kick. Ideal for movie nights or family gatherings, this mac and cheese is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (or pepper jack)
- 2 fresh jalapeños, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add diced jalapeños and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic powder.
- Lower heat and add heavy cream to the skillet. Gradually whisk in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until well-coated.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve hot, garnished with sliced jalapeños if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 82mg