Jalapeno Popper Mac Recipe
Make Jalapeno Popper Mac Recipe in just 1h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Topping
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Boil the Pasta
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add 1 tsp of salt and the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
- 2
- 3
Add Milk
Gradually whisk in 4 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Incorporate Cheese
Lower the heat and add 8 oz of cream cheese, 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and 2 cups of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until all the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- 5
Season the Sauce
Add 1 cup of diced jalapeno peppers, 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1 tsp of onion powder, 1 tsp of paprika, 1 tsp of salt, and 1 tsp of black pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine.
Combining and Baking
- 6
Mix Pasta and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained macaroni and the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- 7
Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 tbs of melted butter. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- 8
Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb topping over the macaroni and cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- 9
Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Jalapeno Popper Mac!