If you're on the hunt for a dish that brings comfort and a bit of a kick to your dinner table, you're in for a treat with this Creamy Jalapeno Mac and Cheese recipe. Imagine the creamy, cheesy goodness of classic mac and cheese, but with a spicy twist. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. This dish combines the best of both worlds: rich, gooey cheese sauce and the zesty heat of jalapeños. Plus, it's easy to make. So get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal that's sure to become a household favorite. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
I used Cavatappi in this jalapeño mac and cheese recipe, because with its unique spiral shape and ridged surface, is perfect for holding onto all that creamy, cheesy goodness. The twists and turns of the pasta allow the sauce to cling to every nook and cranny. This ensures each bite is packed with flavor. Unlike traditional elbow macaroni, cavatappi offers a fun texture and a bit more chew, making your mac and cheese feel more substantial and satisfying. Plus, it's playful corkscrew shape adds a touch of visual appeal to the dish, making it look as good as it tastes.
Elbows are classic for mac and cheese, but you could also use shells, fusilli, penne, etc...Anything you'd like to try! You can really use any "short cut" pasta in this dish.
You can definitely make this recipe ahead of time. There are several options for that.
This recipe is great as it is, but there’s a lot of things you could add to it if you want. You could add shredded chicken, bacon or chorizo for an option with more protein. The cheeses could be switched up and you could use something like pepper jack for a spicier version or queso fresco for tanginess. You could also top it with cilantro instead of green onions if you are a fan.
8 ounce Cavatappi Pasta
1 Jalapeño, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
2 scallions, sliced and separated into greens and whites
2 tablespoons butter cubed
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground pepper
2 tablespoon cream cheese
¼ cup Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup Cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon butter
¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
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