Pepperjack Mac & Cheese Recipe
If you’re looking for a clean break from the traditional burger, this is it.
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Ingredients
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Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Topping
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Boil Water
In a large pot, bring water to a boil over high heat.
- 2
Add Salt
Once boiling, add 1 tsp of salt to the water.
- 3
Cook Pasta
Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- 4
Drain Pasta
Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
- 5
- 6
Add Flour
Once melted, whisk in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- 7
Add Milk
Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- 8
Incorporate Cheeses
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded pepperjack cheese and 4 oz of softened cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- 9
Season Sauce
Add 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1 tsp of onion powder, 1 tsp of black pepper, 1 tsp of paprika, and 0.5 tsp of salt. Stir well to combine.
Combining and Baking
- 10
Combine Pasta and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked elbow macaroni and the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated.
- 11
Prepare Topping
In a small bowl, mix together 0.5 cups of panko breadcrumbs, 0.25 cups of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon of melted butter.
- 12
Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish and evenly spread the topping over the top.
- 13
Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- 14
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Pepperjack Mac & Cheese!