This jalapeno popper macaroni and cheese recipe is not your average mac and cheese. It's a delightful twist on a classic dish, incorporating the spicy flavors of jalapeno poppers. With the creaminess of the cheese and the kick from the jalapenos, this dish will redefine your expectations of comfort food.
This recipe requires white American cheese and Cellentani pasta. White American cheese is a mild and creamy cheese, very popular in the United States, but might not be as readily available in other parts of the world. You can replace it with any other creamy & soft cheese if needed. Cellentani pasta is a corkscrew-shaped macaroni, which is excellent for capturing more of the cheese sauce in each bite. If you can't find it, any macaroni will do.
Ingredients for Jalapeno Popper Macaroni and Cheese
Cellentani pasta: A type of pasta with a unique corkscrew shape that's perfect for soaking up the creamy cheese sauce.
Butter: Adds richness to the cheese sauce.
Jalapeno: Provides a spicy kick to the dish. Adjust the amount based on your preference for heat.
All purpose flour: It helps thicken the sauce.
Whole milk: Contributes to the creaminess of the cheese sauce.
Heavy cream: Enhances the richness and thickness of the sauce.
Cream cheese: Adds a tangy flavor and contributes to the creaminess of the sauce.
White American cheese: It's a mild and smooth cheese that melts excellently.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.
Ground white pepper: Adds a mild, less noticeable heat than black pepper.
Ground cumin: Gives the dish a warm and earthy flavor.
Bacon: Provides a smoky flavor and a crispy texture contrast.
One reader, Alie Stanfield says:
This jalapeno popper macaroni and cheese recipe is a game-changer! The creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the kick of jalapeno and the crunch of bacon is simply irresistible. It's a perfect blend of flavors that will leave you craving for more. Highly recommended!
Key Techniques for Making Jalapeno Popper Mac and Cheese
How to cook pasta: Boil the pasta in a pot of salted water until it is just before al dente, then drain and set aside.
How to make cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, add jalapeño, then stir in flour to make a roux. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, then stir in cream cheese and white American cheese until smooth and creamy.
How to assemble and bake: Layer the cooked noodles and cheese sauce in a baking dish, top with additional cheese, then bake in a preheated oven until bubbly and golden on top.
How To Make Jalapeno Popper Macaroni and Cheese
Add a burst of spiciness to your usual macaroni and cheese by whipping up this easy recipe! Tender pasta is tossed in a creamy sauce for a luscious meal.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbcellentani pasta noodles
- 3tbspbutter
- 1jalapeno,seeds and membranes removed, diced
- 3tbspall purpose flour
- 1½cupwhole milk
- 1½cupheavy cream
- 4ozcream cheese
- ¾lbwhite American cheese,sliced, dice up ½, leave the other ¼ in slices
- 1tspsalt
- ½tspground white pepper
- ½tspground cumin
- 6slicesbacon,cooked
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
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In a medium size pot, add the pasta and water to cook in, then cook according to directions on pasta. Remove from heat when the noodles are just before al dente. Drain noodles and set aside.
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In a large saucepan, melt the butter. Add the diced jalapeño and allow to cook for about 1 minute. Add in the flour and stir to combine. Will be a thick paste.
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Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until the flour mixture starts to turn slightly brown.
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Pour in the milk and heavy cream. Whisk to combine. Allow to simmer for about 3 minutes to thicken.
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Add in the cream cheese, then stir until cream cheese is melted and smooth. Add in the diced white American cheese. Stir while the cheese melts. Add in the seasonings and stir. Cook the sauce until is creamy and smooth and all cheese is melted.
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Pour the noodles into the cheese sauce. Stir to combine. Fold in the diced bacon.
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Pour half of the noodles into a 2-quart baking dish. Layer the remaining white American cheese. Then, top with the remaining noodles.
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Bake uncovered for about 15 minutes.
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Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 973.08kcal
- Fat: 65.05g
- Saturated Fat: 35.60g
- Trans Fat: 0.32g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 20.07g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.74g
- Carbohydrates: 67.68g
- Fiber: 2.74g
- Sugar: 7.17g
- Protein: 30.31g
- Cholesterol: 242.60mg
- Sodium: 874.63mg
- Calcium: 440.56mg
- Potassium: 613.87mg
- Iron: 4.07mg
- Vitamin A: 407.76µg
- Vitamin C: 3.18mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Jalapeno Popper Mac and Cheese
When preparing the jalapeno, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes. This is where most of the heat is concentrated, so removing them will ensure your macaroni and cheese has a balanced flavor. However, if you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to leave some seeds in. Always remember to wash your hands thoroughly after handling jalapenos to avoid any discomfort in your eyes or skin.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Jalapeno Popper Macaroni and Cheese
Prep ahead: Prepare the bacon and jalapeños in advance to save time during the cooking process.
Use pre-sliced cheese: Opt for pre-sliced cheese to cut down on prep time and ensure even melting in the sauce.
Boil water in advance: Boil the water for the pasta while prepping other ingredients to expedite the cooking process.
Multi-task: While the sauce is simmering, cook the bacon to efficiently utilize time in the kitchen.
Organize ingredients: Arrange all ingredients and utensils in advance to streamline the cooking process and minimize confusion.
Efficient stirring: Stir the sauce continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy texture without interruptions.
Substitute Ingredients For Jalapeno Popper Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
- jalapeno - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers have a similar heat level to jalapenos but with a slightly fruitier flavor, making them a great substitute in this recipe.
- white american cheese - Substitute with monterey jack cheese: Monterey Jack cheese has a mild, creamy flavor and melts well, making it a suitable replacement for white American cheese in this dish.
- cellentani pasta noodles - Substitute with cavatappi pasta: Cavatappi pasta has a similar spiral shape to cellentani and a good texture for holding the creamy cheese sauce in this recipe.
Presentation Ideas for Jalapeno Popper Macaroni and Cheese
Elevate the plating: When presenting the jalapeno popper macaroni and cheese, consider using a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the creamy texture and layers of flavors. The dish should be presented in a way that entices the eye and highlights the richness of the dish.
Garnish with crispy bacon: Sprinkle crispy bacon crumbles on top of the macaroni and cheese to add a contrasting texture and a savory, smoky flavor. The bacon not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the overall taste experience.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Add a pop of color and freshness by garnishing the dish with finely chopped fresh cilantro or parsley. The vibrant green hues will provide a visually appealing contrast against the creamy macaroni and cheese.
Serve in individual ramekins: For an elegant presentation, consider serving the jalapeno popper macaroni and cheese in individual ramekins. This not only adds a touch of sophistication but also allows for portion control and a personalized dining experience.
Use a drizzle of jalapeno-infused oil: Create a visually stunning presentation by drizzling a small amount of jalapeno-infused oil in an artistic pattern on the plate before placing the macaroni and cheese. This adds a hint of heat and a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika: Dust the rim of the plate with a light sprinkle of smoked paprika for a visually striking presentation. The vibrant color and subtle smokiness will enhance the visual appeal of the dish.
Serve with artisanal bread: Accompany the jalapeno popper macaroni and cheese with slices of warm, crusty artisanal bread. The bread can be elegantly arranged on the plate to complement the dish and provide a delightful textural contrast.
Use elegant serving utensils: Opt for sleek, modern serving utensils that complement the overall presentation. The right utensils can elevate the dining experience and add a touch of refinement to the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Jalapeno Popper Mac and Cheese
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for a variety of tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and a lid, used for making sauces, boiling liquids, and cooking small quantities of food.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping, beating, and stirring ingredients to incorporate air and create a smooth texture.
Baking dish: A rectangular or square dish used for baking and roasting dishes in the oven.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations used for draining liquids from food, such as pasta or vegetables.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
Spatula: A flat cooking utensil with a long handle, used for flipping, spreading, and lifting foods.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients, mixing batters, and preparing salads or dressings.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and a lid, used for making sauces, boiling liquids, and cooking small quantities of food.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Jalapeno Popper Macaroni and Cheese
- Allow the jalapeno popper macaroni and cheese to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator:
- Transfer the cooled macaroni and cheese to an airtight container.
- Cover the container tightly with a lid or plastic wrap.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- For freezing:
- Divide the cooled macaroni and cheese into individual serving portions.
- Place each portion in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
- To reheat refrigerated macaroni and cheese:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the desired amount of macaroni and cheese to an oven-safe dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
- To reheat frozen macaroni and cheese:
- Thaw the frozen portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the thawed macaroni and cheese to an oven-safe dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
- Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
- Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions of macaroni and cheese in the microwave:
- Place the desired amount in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out.
- Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until heated to your liking.
How To Reheat Leftover Jalapeno Popper Macaroni and Cheese
To reheat leftover jalapeno popper macaroni and cheese, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminum foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
For a quicker method, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the desired amount of macaroni and cheese in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of milk or cream to help maintain the creamy texture, and stir well. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until heated through.
If you have a bit more time, reheat the macaroni and cheese on the stovetop. Place the desired amount in a saucepan over medium-low heat, add a splash of milk or cream, and stir gently until heated through and creamy. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the sauce to break or become grainy.
For a crispy top, after reheating the macaroni and cheese using any of the above methods, transfer it to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle some shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, or crushed tortilla chips on top, and broil for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to store leftover jalapeno popper macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, always ensure that the dish reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
Interesting Trivia About Jalapeno Popper Macaroni and Cheese
The jalapeno popper macaroni and cheese recipe is a delightful fusion of classic mac and cheese with a spicy kick from the jalapenos. This dish combines the creaminess of the cheese sauce with the smoky flavor of bacon, creating a unique and flavorful comfort food. It's a perfect dish for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.
Budget-Friendly: Making Jalapeno Popper Mac and Cheese at Home
This jalapeno popper macaroni and cheese recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of common ingredients like pasta, milk, and cheese makes it budget-friendly. However, the inclusion of jalapenos and bacon might slightly elevate the cost. Overall, this dish offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it a worthwhile investment for a cozy family meal. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its taste and creativity. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it a reasonable choice for a satisfying and indulgent meal.
Is Jalapeno Popper Mac and Cheese Healthy?
This jalapeno popper macaroni and cheese recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The dish is high in calories, fat, and sodium due to the generous amounts of butter, cream, cheese, and bacon used. The refined flour in the pasta and the all-purpose flour used for thickening the sauce also contribute to the dish's less-than-ideal nutritional profile. However, the recipe does include some beneficial ingredients, such as the jalapeno pepper, which contains vitamin C and antioxidants.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Swap the regular pasta for a whole-grain or legume-based variety to increase fiber and nutrient content
- Reduce the amount of butter and replace some of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or vegetable broth to lower the fat content
- Use reduced-fat cream cheese and a lower-fat cheese alternative, such as part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar, to decrease the overall fat and calorie count
- Incorporate additional vegetables, such as diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach, to boost the dish's vitamin and mineral content
- Replace half of the bacon with a leaner protein source, such as diced chicken breast or turkey bacon, to reduce the saturated fat content
- Experiment with using cauliflower or butternut squash puree as a partial replacement for the cheese sauce, which can help reduce calories and add extra nutrients
Editor's Opinion on This Jalapeno Popper Mac and Cheese Recipe
The jalapeno popper macaroni and cheese recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors. The combination of creamy cheese sauce, spicy jalapenos, and savory bacon creates a rich and indulgent dish. The use of white American cheese adds a smooth and velvety texture to the macaroni, while the jalapenos provide a subtle heat that elevates the overall flavor profile. The addition of cumin adds a warm and earthy undertone, complementing the other ingredients perfectly. This recipe is a wonderful twist on traditional macaroni and cheese, offering a delightful balance of creaminess and spice.
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Why trust this Jalapeno Popper Macaroni and Cheese Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful fusion of classic macaroni and cheese with a spicy twist, incorporating the beloved flavors of jalapeno poppers. The creamy, indulgent cheese sauce is enriched with cream cheese and white american cheese, creating a luscious base for the pasta. The addition of jalapeno adds a kick of heat, while the crispy bacon lends a satisfying crunch. With a perfect balance of textures and flavors, this dish promises to elevate your mac and cheese experience to new heights.
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