Margarita Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this bold and zesty Margarita Mac and Cheese! This irresistible dish combines creamy layers of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese with a splash of tequila, fresh lime juice, and a touch of honey for a margarita-inspired twist that’s both tangy and indulgent. A crunchy topping of crushed tortilla chips and fresh cilantro delivers the perfect finishing touch to this crowd-pleasing meal. Ideal for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this mac and cheese recipe will leave your taste buds dancing. Easy to prepare in under 40 minutes, it’s a fun, flavorful take on a classic that’s guaranteed to impress!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz Elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp Unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Whole milk
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 2 cups Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tbsp Tequila
- 2 tbsp Fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp Lime zest
- 1 tbsp Honey
- 2 tbsp Diced green chilies (optional)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Ground black pepper
- 0.5 cup Crushed tortilla chips
- 2 tbsp Chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture is lightly golden and smooth.
Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking to combine. Continue to cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens slightly.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, one handful at a time, allowing each addition to melt completely before adding more.
Once the cheese is fully incorporated, stir in the tequila, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and honey. If desired, add the diced green chilies for extra flavor and heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish and sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips over the top for a crunchy garnish.
Finish by sprinkling with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
728 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 43.4 g | 56% | |
| Saturated Fat | 26.2 g | 131% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 126 mg | 42% | |
| Sodium | 774 mg | 34% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 57.6 g | 21% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.7 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.2 g | ||
| Protein | 24.5 g | 49% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 520 mg | 40% | |
| Iron | 2.2 mg | 12% | |
| Potassium | 218 mg | 5% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
