Smoky chipotle mac and cheese –Are you ready to elevate your mac and cheese game to the next level? Say hello to Smoky Chipotle Mac and Cheese! This dish combines the comforting essence of traditional mac and cheese with a smoky, spicy kick that will leave you craving more. Perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress! Let’s dive right into this delicious creation.
Smoky Chipotle Mac and Cheese
Get ready to indulge in a rich and creamy mac and cheese that packs a flavor punch with smoky chipotle peppers. This dish is not just a classic comfort food; it’s a culinary adventure for your taste buds!
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup pepper jack cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 can (7 oz) chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour, and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the grated cheddar and pepper jack cheese until melted and smooth. This is where the magic happens!
- In a blender, combine the chipotle peppers (remove seeds if you want less heat), garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a splash of the cheese sauce. Blend until smooth.
- Fold the blended chipotle mixture into the cheese sauce, adding salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well to coat all the noodles.
- If using breadcrumbs, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Smoky Chipotle Mac and Cheese!
This dish is a true showstopper, combining creamy textures with a smoky kick that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Perfect for the cheese lovers and spice enthusiasts alike—it’s time to dig in!