If you’re a fan of both classic comfort food and a little spice, this Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings. A rich, creamy blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella, paired with the unmistakable kick of jalapeño, brings an exciting twist to the traditional mac and cheese we all know and love. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or looking to impress guests, this recipe strikes the right balance between cheesy goodness and spicy flair.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mac and cheese has long been a go-to comfort food, but sometimes it’s fun to elevate this classic with new flavors. The jalapeño adds just the right amount of heat, while the combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella creates a creamy texture that’s irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile! You can adjust the spice level, add crispy breadcrumbs for texture, or even throw in extra toppings like bacon or green onions to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

8 ounces elbow macaroni – This pasta is a mac and cheese classic, but feel free to use your favorite.
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – Sharp cheddar provides a bold flavor that pairs beautifully with the spiciness of jalapeño.
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded – Adds a gooey, melty texture.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter – Helps create a smooth, rich sauce.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – This combines with butter to make a roux, thickening the sauce.
2 cups milk – The base of your creamy cheese sauce.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic and jalapeño with a mild, savory taste.
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder – A secret ingredient for enhancing the sharpness of the cheese.
1 jalapeño, finely chopped – Provides the perfect spicy kick.
Salt and pepper to taste – Balance the flavors.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional) – For a crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cook the macaroni: Follow the package instructions to cook the macaroni until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Prepare the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Gradually pour in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens. This process takes just a few minutes.
Add seasonings and jalapeño: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder for a flavorful base. Then, add the finely chopped jalapeño for that fiery touch, and season with salt and pepper.
Melt the cheeses: Remove the sauce from heat, and gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Combine with macaroni: Toss the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring that every piece is evenly coated.
Optional step: If you like a crunchy topping, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

Customizations:

More spice: Add more chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper if you want extra heat.
Creamier texture: Mix in a little cream cheese for an ultra-rich sauce.
Protein boost: Add cooked chicken or bacon for a hearty variation.

Serving Suggestions

This Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese pairs well with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For a crowd-pleasing presentation, garnish with a few extra jalapeño slices or fresh herbs like cilantro. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, it’s bound to become a favorite for spice lovers.

Conclusion

Elevate your next meal with this delicious Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese. It’s the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy comfort with a bold, spicy kick. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, this dish is sure to add excitement to your table!

Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese

Author: Alice
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Bring a little heat to your comfort food with this delicious twist on classic mac and cheese. Creamy, cheesy goodness with a kick of jalapeño makes it perfect for spice lovers.

Ingredients

Scale

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
1 jalapeño, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions

Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and chopped jalapeño. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and mix in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted. Combine the cheese sauce with the macaroni and pour into a greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Bake at 350F (175C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Prep Time: 10 minutes