Chipotle Mac Recipe
Creamy macaroni and cheese with a smoky chipotle flavor.
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Ingredients
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Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Toppings
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Boil the Pasta
In a large pot, bring water to a boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt.
- 2
Add Macaroni
Once the water is boiling, add 2 cups of elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes.
- 3
Drain Pasta
Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
- 4
Melt Butter
In the same pot used for the pasta, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- 5
Add Flour
Once the butter is melted, whisk in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1 minute until it turns light golden.
- 6
Add Milk
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- 7
Add Cheese and Spices
Reduce heat to low and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon of chipotle chili powder. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- 8
Season Sauce
Season the cheese sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
Combining and Serving
- 9
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated.
- 10
Prepare Toppings (optional)
If desired, mix breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese in a bowl.
- 11
Serve
Serve the mac and cheese warm, topping with the breadcrumb mixture if using.