Jul 14 2026

Jalapeno Popper Mac Recipe

Time1h
Serves8

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

Method

Cooking Pasta

  1. 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

  1. 2

    Prepare the Roux

    In a large saucepan, melt 4 tbs of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 1 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for about 2 minutes until slightly golden.

  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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 9

    Serve

    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Jalapeno Popper Mac!

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