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bacon jalapeno mac n cheese
Sofia

bacon jalapeno mac n cheese

Creamy, cheesy macaroni loaded with crispy bacon and spicy jalapeños for the ultimate comfort food with a bold kick. Baked to golden, bubbling perfection—perfect for dinner or a crowd-pleasing side!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 620
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
  • 6 slices bacon chopped
  • 2 –3 jalapeños thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika optional
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs optional topping
  • 1 tablespoon butter for topping

Method
 

  1. Cook Pasta:
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Cook Bacon and Jalapeños:
  4. In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté jalapeños for 1–2 minutes until slightly softened. Set aside with bacon.
  5. Make the Cheese Sauce:
  6. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until slightly thickened, 3–4 minutes.
  7. Add Cheese:
  8. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar, Monterey Jack, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
  9. Assemble:
  10. Add cooked pasta, bacon, and jalapeños to the cheese sauce. Mix to coat evenly. Transfer to a greased baking dish if baking.
  11. Optional Topping and Bake:
  12. Mix panko with 1 tablespoon melted butter and sprinkle over mac and cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Notes

  • Heat level: Use more or fewer jalapeños depending on your spice preference.
  • Cheese options: Feel free to mix in gouda, mozzarella, or cream cheese for a twist.
  • Make ahead: Assemble without baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 1 day.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stovetop or in oven with a splash of milk.