Spicy Southwest Mac and Cheese

A zesty twist on the classic mac and cheese, this Southwest-inspired dish combines smoky chipotle peppers and creamy cheddar for a bold, flavorful comfort meal.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Serves: 6

Ingredients

12 oz elbow macaroni

2 tbsp unsalted butter

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded

1/2 cup canned corn, drained

1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced

1 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.

3. Gradually whisk in the milk, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes.

4. Stir in cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, mixing until completely melted and smooth.

5. Add the cooked macaroni, corn, black beans, minced chipotle peppers, and smoked paprika to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine and heat through.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to prevent drying.

Scan for cooking tips & leave a review!

itsonly.recipes/view/spicy-southwest-mac-and-cheese

This recipe is for informational purposes only. Always follow proper food safety practices, cook foods to safe internal temperatures, and store leftovers appropriately. Results may vary.