This recipe for baked mac and cheese has a twist with the addition of jalapenos and breadcrumbs, making it a delicious comfort food dish perfect for a family dinner or weekend indulgence. The recipe uses elbow macaroni, shredded cheddar and Monterey jack cheese, diced jalapenos, and is topped with a breadcrumb mixture before being baked in the oven. Tips for making the dish gluten-free or lighter and recommendations for leftovers are also provided. This easy-to-follow recipe is sure to impress and become a family favorite.
Baked Mac and Cheese with a Twist: A Decadent Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction
Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food that can instantly bring a smile to your face. If you are looking for an easy yet delicious recipe for a family dinner or a weekend indulgence, then this baked mac and cheese with a twist is just perfect for you. With an added kick of jalapenos and breadcrumbs, this dish takes traditional mac and cheese to a whole new level of deliciousness. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a dish that is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
- 1/2 cup diced jalapenos
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour and whisk for 2 minutes.
- Slowly add in the milk and whisk continuously until the mixture becomes thick and creamy.
- Add in the shredded cheddar and Monterey jack cheese.
- Stir until melted and smooth.
- Add diced jalapenos into the cheese sauce and stir.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and mix well.
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil together.
- Spread the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips
- For a spicier twist, add more diced jalapenos to the dish.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free macaroni and breadcrumbs.
- You can substitute whole milk with skim milk or almond milk for a lighter version.
- For a creamier texture, add 1/2 cup of sour cream to the cheese sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
Baked mac and cheese with a twist is a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. The addition of jalapenos and breadcrumbs gives this classic recipe a new level of tastiness that everyone will enjoy. Follow this step-by-step recipe, and you will have a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Have fun and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of this decadent comfort food.