Go Back
–+ servings
Jalapeno Bacon Mac & Cheese

Creamy Jalapeno Bacon Mac & Cheese for Ultimate Comfort

Enjoy this Jalapeno Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe, a creamy blend of spices and flavors for a comforting meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 700
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni Consider gluten-free pasta for a different texture.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Butter Margarine can be used for a dairy-free option.
  • 1/2 cup Cream Cheese Try Neufchâtel for a lighter texture.
  • 3 tbsp All-Purpose Flour Cornstarch can replace it for a gluten-free alternative.
  • 6 oz Cheddar Cheese, shredded Freshly shredded yields a better texture.
  • 6 oz Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded Substitute with more cheddar if desired.
  • 2 1/2 cups Whole Milk Lower fat milk can be used.
  • 1 1/2 cups Heavy Cream Half-and-half can be a lighter choice.
For the Flavors
  • 3-4 Jalapenos, finely diced Adjust the number to suit your spice preference.
  • 1/2 lb Bacon, cooked and diced Switch to turkey bacon for a leaner version.
  • 2 tsp Ground Mustard Highly recommended for extra zing.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Fresh onions can be sautéed as an alternative.
  • 1 tsp Granulated Garlic Fresh minced garlic works nicely too.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • colander
  • whisk
  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Melt butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add jalapenos and sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened.
  3. Sprinkle flour over jalapenos, whisking for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Stir in cream cheese until smooth.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring until smooth. Cook for about 3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  5. Remove from heat and mix in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and velvety.
  6. Stir in the drained macaroni, and let sit on low heat for 3-5 minutes to thicken.
  7. Fold in cooked bacon and ensure everything is well combined and heated through.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or additional jalapenos if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 700kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 600mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For freezing, ensure it cools completely before sealing.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!