introduction
This Bacon Jalapeno Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and a little spicy. It mixes crispy bacon and fresh jalapeno with classic mac and cheese. It cooks fast and makes a great weeknight meal or side dish. You can pair it with other simple dishes like baked potatoes with crispy broccoli and bacon for a full meal.
why make this recipe
Make this when you want comfort food with a kick. It is easy, quick, and uses few ingredients. The bacon adds salt and crunch. The jalapeno adds fresh heat. Kids and adults often like the cheesy sauce.
how to make Bacon Jalapeno Mac and Cheese
Follow simple steps. Cook the pasta first. Crisp the bacon and soften the jalapeno. Make a smooth cheese sauce with butter, flour, and milk. Mix everything and serve hot.
Ingredients :
8 ounces elbow macaroni, 4 slices bacon, chopped, 1 jalapeno, diced, 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 2 cups milk, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside., 2. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels., 3. In the same skillet, add the diced jalapeno and cook until soft., 4. In another pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mixture thickens., 5. Reduce heat and add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth., 6. Combine the cooked macaroni, bacon, and cheese sauce in a large bowl and mix well., 7. Serve hot.
how to serve Bacon Jalapeno Mac and Cheese
Serve it hot straight from the bowl. Top with extra bacon bits or a few fresh jalapeno slices if you like more heat. It goes well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
how to store Bacon Jalapeno Mac and Cheese
Let the mac and cheese cool to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the oven. Add a splash of milk if the sauce is too thick.
tips to make Bacon Jalapeno Mac and Cheese
- Cook the pasta just until al dente so it does not get mushy after mixing.
- Drain pasta well to keep the sauce from getting watery.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper after adding cheese. Bacon adds salt.
- Remove seeds from the jalapeno to lower the heat. Keep seeds if you want more spice.
- Use sharp cheddar for stronger flavor.
variation (if any)
- Add breadcrumbs on top and bake for 10 minutes for a crunchy top.
- Swap bacon for cooked chorizo for a smokier taste.
- Use pepper jack cheese for more spice.
- Stir in steamed broccoli or peas for more veggies.
FAQs
Q: Can I use different pasta?
A: Yes. Shells or cavatappi work well. Cook to al dente.
Q: How spicy is this dish?
A: The heat depends on the jalapeno and whether you keep the seeds. Remove seeds for mild heat.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Make the sauce and pasta, mix, and store in the fridge. Reheat and bake if you like a crust.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: You can freeze it, but texture may change. Freeze in a tight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
For more ideas and a similar take on this dish, see this version of Bacon Jalapeño Mac and Cheese. If you want another twist and tips, check out Bacon Jalapeño Mac and Cheese- Butter Your Biscuit.
Bacon Jalapeno Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In the same skillet, add the diced jalapeno and cook until soft.
- In another pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Reduce heat and add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked macaroni, bacon, and cheese sauce in a large bowl and mix well.
- Serve hot.