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Spicy Cheesy Jalapeño Mac & Cheese

A creamy, flavorful twist on a classic dish that features macaroni enveloped in a rich cheese sauce with a delightful kick from jalapeños.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni Cooked according to package instructions
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter For making the roux
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour To thicken the cheese sauce
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%) Used in the cheese sauce
Cheesy Goodness
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Main cheese for the dish
  • 1 cup diced jalapeños Fresh or canned, drained
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder For flavoring
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder For flavoring
  • to taste Salt and pepper Adjust based on preference
Toppings
  • optional breadcrumbs For topping before broiling
  • optional chopped parsley For garnish
  • optional crispy fried onions For extra crunch

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Making the Roux
  1. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour, whisking until combined to form a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes or until it turns light golden brown.
Adding Milk
  1. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for another 3-5 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
Cheesy Goodness
  1. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Combining
  1. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until every noodle is coated in cheesy goodness.
Serving
  1. Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and place under the broiler for 3-5 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

For an extra flavor kick, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack. Adjust the spice level with jalapeño seeds or cayenne pepper, depending on your preference.