Flamin’ Cheetos Macaroni and Cheese
User Reviews
3.6
Flamin’ Cheetos Macaroni and Cheese
Description
Flamin’ Cheetos Macaroni and Cheese combines cooked elbow macaroni with a rich cheddar cheese sauce made by creating a roux with butter and flour, then whisking in whole milk until it thickens. Sharp cheddar cheese is melted into the sauce, creating a creamy texture that coats the pasta evenly. The macaroni and cheese is transferred to a baking dish and topped generously with crushed Flamin' Hot Cheetos, which add both heat and a crisp texture. Baking the dish allows the cheese sauce to set slightly and the Cheetos to develop a toasty finish.
The flavor of the cheddar cheese and the buttery sauce provides a smooth base while the Flamin' Hot Cheetos introduce a spicy crunch on top, delivering a layered texture and taste experience. Seasoning with fresh cracked salt and pepper balances the flavors.
This baked macaroni and cheese can be served as a rich main dish or a side that pairs well with grilled meats or a fresh salad. For those who prefer less spice, regular Cheetos or even Fritos offer alternative toppings that still add texture and flavor.
Experimenting with different crunchy toppings like Fritos can alter the flavor profile, making this recipe versatile. The recipe suggests pre-cooking the pasta to just al dente to avoid overcooking during baking and advises seasoning to personal taste.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni cooked to just al dente
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 2 Tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk whole
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded sharp
- salt fresh cracked, to taste
- black pepper fresh cracked, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups flamin' hot Cheetos crushed or chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325F
- In a heavy bottomed pot melt the butter and flour and cook, stirring, for about a minute. Add the milk and whisk or stir constantly while heating on medium heat until the mixture comes to a simmer and thickens slightly. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Take off the heat, and sprinkle in the cheese, while stirring. When the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth, fold in the macaroni. Turn the mac and cheese into a skillet or baking dish and top with the Cheetos.
- Bake for 15 - 20 minutes and enjoy!
Notes
- Substitute regular Cheetos if you prefer no heat for a milder flavor.
- Fritos can be used instead of Cheetos to add a different crunchy texture and taste.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4-6 servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 664 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 664kcal | 33% |
| Carbohydrates | 67g | 22% |
| Protein | 27g | 54% |
| Fat | 32g | 49% |
| Saturated Fat | 17g | 85% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Trans Fat | 0.2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 86mg | 29% |
| Sodium | 514mg | 21% |
| Potassium | 404mg | 9% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 8g | 16% |
| Vitamin A | 939IU | 19% |
| Vitamin C | 0.03mg | 0% |
| Calcium | 576mg | 58% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
3.6
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