Baked Jalapeño Mac & Cheese
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
40 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Calories
533 kcal
Baked Jalapeño Mac & Cheese
Description
This Baked Jalapeño Mac & Cheese starts with a smooth roux made from butter and flour, to which warm milk and cream cheese are added for creaminess. Seasoned with salt and garlic powder, the sauce thickens over medium heat before sharp cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños are stirred in. Mixing the sauce with tender elbow macaroni, the casserole is then topped with the cheese, followed by a crumb topping made of butter, breadcrumbs, and bacon bits for texture and a smoky accent.
The dish bakes at 400°F until the topping is golden and bubbling. The jalapeños contribute a gentle spiciness without overwhelming the creamy, cheesy profile. This recipe is well suited as a hearty side or a comforting meal on its own.
Using freshly shredded cheese helps the sauce melt more smoothly. Gradually adding milk during sauce preparation prevents lumps. For jalapeños, pickled, canned, or jarred varieties are recommended; if using fresh, roasting and seeding them first reduces intensity.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk warmed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 ounces cream cheese cubed
- 4 ounces jalapeños diced
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese divided, shredded sharp
Topping
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon bacon bits
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Cook macaroni according to package directions, drain well.
- Meanwhile melt butter in a saucepan. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute.
- Slowly add milk a bit at a time whisking after each addition until smooth. Once all of the milk is whisked in, add cream cheese, salt, and garlic powder and whisk until smooth. Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat until thick and bubbly.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 ¼ cups cheese, macaroni, and jalapenos.
- Pour into a 2 QT baking dish. Top with remaining cheese. Mix butter and breadcrumbs and sprinkle overtop.
- Bake 15-20 minutes or just until crumbs are golden.
Notes
- Shred your own cheddar cheese to ensure smooth melting, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Add milk gradually while whisking to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth cheese sauce.
- Remove the sauce from heat before incorporating shredded cheddar to avoid curdling.
- Use jarred, canned, or pickled jalapeños for consistent flavor; if using fresh, roast and seed them before adding.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 533 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 533 | 27% |
| Carbohydrates | 55g | 18% |
| Protein | 20g | 40% |
| Fat | 26g | 40% |
| Saturated Fat | 16g | 80% |
| Cholesterol | 76mg | 25% |
| Sodium | 597mg | 25% |
| Potassium | 345mg | 7% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 7g | 14% |
| Vitamin A | 1126IU | 23% |
| Vitamin C | 22mg | 24% |
| Calcium | 338mg | 34% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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