Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese (Print)

Creamy mac and cheese loaded with pickles, jalapeños and topped with crispy breadcrumbs for a zesty, comforting dish.

# Components:

→ Pasta

01 - 14 oz elbow macaroni

→ Cheese Sauce

02 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
03 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
04 - 2 cups whole milk
05 - 1 cup cream cheese, softened
06 - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
07 - 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
08 - 1 tsp garlic powder
09 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
10 - 1/2 tsp salt
11 - 1/4 tsp black pepper

→ Pickle & Jalapeño Mix

12 - 1/2 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
13 - 2-3 large jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
14 - 2 tbsp pickle brine

→ Topping

15 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
16 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
17 - 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Grease a large 9x13 inch baking dish.
02 - Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
03 - In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a roux.
04 - Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
05 - Add cream cheese and stir until melted. Add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
06 - Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
07 - Fold in the cooked macaroni, chopped pickles, diced jalapeños, and pickle brine. Mix until evenly coated.
08 - Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish.
09 - In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and 1/2 cup cheddar cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni.
10 - Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in under an hour for weeknight comfort food
  • Perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, tangy, and spicy flavors
  • Uses simple ingredients but delivers gourmet results
  • Crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults devour
02 -
  • Makes excellent leftovers and reheats beautifully
  • The pickle brine is the secret weapon dont skip it
  • Can be assembled ahead and baked just before serving
  • Freezes well for up to 3 months
03 -
  • Always grate your own cheese pre shredded varieties contain anti caking agents that prevent proper melting
  • Let the mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes after baking this helps the sauce set for easier serving
  • For the crispiest topping place under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking watch carefully to prevent burning

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