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Jalapeno Bacon Mac & Cheese

Creamy Jalapeno Bacon Mac & Cheese That's Pure Comfort

This Jalapeno Bacon Mac & Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish with a spicy twist that perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni can use any pasta shape
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1/4 cup butter adds richness
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese swap with Greek yogurt for lighter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour use cornstarch for gluten-free
  • 6 oz cheddar cheese, shredded freshly shredded
  • 6 oz Monterey jack cheese, shredded try mozzarella for a different twist
  • 2 1/2 cups whole milk almond or oat milk for dairy-free
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream substitute with half-and-half for lower fat
For Flavoring
  • 3-4 pieces jalapenos, finely diced adjust to spice preference
  • 1/2 pound cooked bacon, diced use vegetarian bacon for meatless
  • 2 tsp ground mustard omit if out
  • 1 tsp onion powder or swap with garlic powder
  • 1 tsp granulated garlic fresh garlic can be used

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Dutch oven
  • colander

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add jalapenos and sauté for 3-5 minutes. Whisk in flour, cream cheese, mustard, onion powder, and garlic until smooth.
  3. Incorporate Dairy: Slowly pour in whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously. Heat until warm, then add shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well. Heat through for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  5. Final Touches: Fold in diced cooked bacon and stir until well distributed. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 1200mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for the best texture. Adjust jalapenos for desired spice level.

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