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Jalapeno Popper Macaroni Cheese

Creamy, cheesy macaroni baked with jalapeños and topped with crispy breadcrumbs for a spicy twist on classic comfort food.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 2 jalapeños diced
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
Topping
  • 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp butter melted
  • 0.25 cup parmesan cheese grated

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Saucepan
  • Baking dish
  • Mixing bowls

Method
 

  1. Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
  2. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and whisk in flour to form a roux.
  3. Gradually add milk while whisking until the sauce thickens.
  4. Add cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
  5. Mix in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted.
  6. Add diced jalapeños, salt, and pepper to the sauce.
  7. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
  8. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and parmesan.
  9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Notes

Add crispy bacon or extra jalapeños for more flavor. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.