Spicy Mac and Cheese
Turn up the heat on classic comfort food with this Spicy Mac and Cheese recipe—a bold twist that’s sure to impress your taste buds! Featuring creamy cheddar and zesty Pepper Jack cheese, this dish combines a velvety cheese sauce with a perfect kick of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, and optional diced jalapeño for added spice. Topped with golden, crispy breadcrumbs for the perfect crunch, this baked mac and cheese recipe is an irresistible balance of creamy, cheesy indulgence and fiery flavor. Ready in just 45 minutes, this crowd-pleasing dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any time you're craving a little heat with your cheesy comfort. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, this spicy twist on a classic is guaranteed to be a hit!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 3 cups Whole milk
- 3 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1.5 cups Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons Hot sauce
- 0.5 teaspoons Ground cayenne pepper
- 0.5 teaspoons Paprika
- 0.5 teaspoons Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoons Salt
- 0.5 teaspoons Black pepper
- 1 piece Jalapeño, finely diced (optional)
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish lightly with olive oil or cooking spray.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Continue to whisk as the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar and Pepper Jack cheeses, one handful at a time, stirring until melted and smooth.
Stir in the hot sauce, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. If using, fold in the finely diced jalapeño for extra heat.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring all the pasta is well-coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
In a small bowl, toss the breadcrumbs with olive oil until lightly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Let the mac and cheese cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle. Enjoy your spicy, cheesy creation!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
4751 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 253.8 g | 325% | |
| Saturated Fat | 147.0 g | 735% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 722 mg | 241% | |
| Sodium | 8122 mg | 353% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 417.0 g | 152% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.9 g | 64% | |
| Total Sugars | 55.7 g | ||
| Protein | 211.1 g | 422% | |
| Vitamin D | 10.8 mcg | 54% | |
| Calcium | 4582 mg | 352% | |
| Iron | 22.0 mg | 122% | |
| Potassium | 1727 mg | 37% | |
*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.
