Chorizo Mac and Cheese
Chorizo Mac and Cheese brings a spicy twist to classic comfort food. Elbow macaroni is combined with crispy Mexican chorizo, sautéed red onions, bell pepper, jalapeños, and a creamy cheese sauce made from cheddar and jalapeño pepper jack. Corn and black beans add texture and a touch of sweetness. This baked casserole has a golden panko crust and a rich, flavorful interior featuring smoky, spicy, and cheesy notes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 ounces Mexican chorizo casing removed
- 1 red onion diced, small
- ½ red bell pepper diced
- 2 jalapeños diced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk warmed
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup pepper jack cheese shredded, jalapeño flavored
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup black beans canned
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons panko
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly oil an 8×8 baking dish or coat with nonstick spray.
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions; drain well.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add chorizo and cook until dry and crisp, about 2 minutes, making sure to crumble the chorizo as it cooks. Add red onion, bell pepper and jalapeños and cook until the onions begin to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Whisk in flour until well combined. Then gradually whisk in milk and cook, whisking constantly, until incorporated, about 1-2 minutes. Whisk in cheeses until smooth, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in pasta, corn, black beans and lime juice.
- Spread pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle Panko evenly over the top. Place into oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.