Are you ready to take your mac and cheese game to the next level? Dive into the irresistible world of Bacon Jalapeno Mac and Cheese, where creamy, cheesy goodness meets the smoky crunch of bacon and a spicy kick from fresh jalapenos. This small-batch recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick indulgence when cravings strike. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s not only comforting but also bursting with flavor. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you—so let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 jalapeno, diced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 cup of elbow macaroni, 4 slices of chopped bacon, 1 diced jalapeno, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of flour, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a medium pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon to the skillet and cook until it is crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the diced jalapeno. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it and set it aside. In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 2 tablespoons of flour, whisking constantly for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. The mixture should be lightly golden.
- Gradually pour in 1/2 cup of milk while continuing to whisk. Cook the mixture for another 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Make sure to stir constantly to avoid lumps.
- Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni, sautéed jalapeno, and crispy bacon to the cheese sauce. Stir everything together until the macaroni is well coated with the cheese sauce.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to serving bowls. Optionally, you can top with additional jalapeno slices or a sprinkle of cheese before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious Bacon Jalapeno Mac and Cheese!
Tips
- Cook the Pasta Perfectly: Ensure your elbow macaroni is cooked al dente by following the package instructions closely. This will give you that perfect bite and prevent it from becoming mushy in the cheese sauce.
- Crispy Bacon is Key: For the best flavor and texture, cook the bacon until it's crispy. This will add a delightful crunch to your mac and cheese and infuse the dish with savory goodness.
- Don’t Skip the Roux: Creating a roux with butter and flour is essential for a smooth and creamy cheese sauce. Whisk constantly to avoid lumps and achieve that velvety texture.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, you can remove the seeds from the jalapeno before dicing. Alternatively, add more jalapeno for an extra spicy kick!
- Cheese Choices: While sharp cheddar is a classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor and creaminess.
- Serve it Up: For an extra touch, top your mac and cheese with additional jalapeno slices or a sprinkle of cheese before serving. It makes for a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 85mg
