Spicy Macaroni and Cheese
Transform your comfort food game with this irresistible Spicy Macaroni and Cheese recipe! This creamy, cheesy classic gets a bold upgrade with a kick of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, hot sauce, and smoky paprika, making it perfect for spice lovers. A rich blend of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, and cream cheese creates an ultra-luxurious sauce that coats tender elbow macaroni, while a golden, crispy panko breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch. Easy to prepare in just under an hour, this baked macaroni and cheese is ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or whenever you're craving indulgent, spicy comfort food. Serve it as a main course or side dish for a meal that's sure to impress!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp hot sauce
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp paprika
- 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes, forming a roux.
Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture starts to thicken, stirring frequently.
Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, and softened cream cheese in batches, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
Stir in the hot sauce, red pepper flakes, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into it, spreading evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni.
Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Spicy Macaroni and Cheese!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1013 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 59.8 g | 77% | |
| Saturated Fat | 34.7 g | 174% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 164 mg | 55% | |
| Sodium | 1299 mg | 56% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 83.1 g | 30% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.7 g | 13% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.6 g | ||
| Protein | 36.6 g | 73% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.0 mcg | 10% | |
| Calcium | 745 mg | 57% | |
| Iron | 4.1 mg | 23% | |
| Potassium | 373 mg | 8% | |
*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.
