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Creamy Jalapeno Mac and Cheese Recipes That Bring the Heat

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This jalapeño popper mac and cheese is the ultimate spicy comfort food mashup — extra creamy, rich, and packed with bold flavor. A blend of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and smooth cream cheese creates the velvety base, while diced jalapeños bring just the right amount of kick. Topped with crunchy breadcrumbs, crispy turkey bacon, and fresh chives, this dish delivers an unforgettable bite every time.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta

1 tablespoon butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon mustard powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

4 oz cream cheese, softened

2 fresh jalapeños (1 diced, 1 sliced — deseeded for less heat)

4 strips cooked turkey bacon, crumbled

½ cup breadcrumbs (optional: mix with 1 tbsp melted butter)

2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté aromatics
In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.

3. Make the roux
Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to create a thick paste.

4. Add milk and cream
Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Season and melt cheeses
Add mustard powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in cream cheese until fully melted. Reduce heat and mix in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack. Stir until smooth and creamy.

6. Add jalapeños
Stir in the diced jalapeño for heat and flavor.

7. Combine with pasta
Fold in the cooked pasta and mix until evenly coated in sauce.

8. Assemble and top
Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs, sliced jalapeño, remaining cheese, turkey bacon, and chives.

9. Bake or broil

  • To broil: Place under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until golden and bubbly.

  • To bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 10–12 minutes.

10. Serve hot
Garnish with extra chives and serve immediately.

Notes

  • For less heat, deseed both jalapeños or replace with mild green chiles.

  • To make it gluten-free, use GF pasta and substitute flour with a GF blend or cornstarch.

  • Add cooked chicken or black beans for protein.

  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

Find it online: https://thetastyyfork.com/creamy-jalapeno-mac-and-cheese-recipes-that-bring-the-heat/