White Cheddar & Jalapeño Mac & Cheese

Elevate your comfort food game with this Creamy Spicy Delight: White Cheddar & Jalapeño Mac & Cheese. This recipe combines velvety white cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese with a kick of fresh jalapeños, creating a bold and delicious twist on a classic dish. Topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs, every bite is a delightful balance of creamy and spicy. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this mac and cheese is sure to impress and satisfy cravings!

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Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1-2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons olive oil

Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly.

Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.

Cheese It Up: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded white cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until completely melted and smooth.

Mix in Spices and Jalapeños: Stir in the chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing until all the pasta is fully coated with the creamy cheese mixture.

Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil. Mix well to ensure the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.

Bake (optional): If you like a crunchy topping, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the panko mixture evenly over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Serve: Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 4-6 servings