If you're looking to elevate your macaroni and cheese game, this Spicy Jalapeño Bacon Macaroni and Cheese is the ticket. It's creamy, cheesy, with a kick of spice and a delightful crunch from crispy bacon and breadcrumbs. Perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck hit.
The star of this dish is, of course, the elbow macaroni, which acts as the perfect vehicle for our rich sauce. The bacon provides a smoky, crispy contrast to the creamy cheese. Our sauce begins with unsalted butter and all-purpose flour to create a roux, which thickens the sauce. Whole milk adds richness and creaminess. For cheese, we use a combination of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese to achieve a smooth, flavorful sauce. The jalapeños bring heat, while garlic powder and onion powder add depth. Finally, a topping of breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil adds a satisfying crunch, and fresh parsley brightens up the dish just before serving.
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad to balance out the richness. A side of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or broccoli also complements the flavors nicely. For drinks, a cold beer or a light white wine would be perfect companions.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives your oven time to reach the right temperature while you prepare the rest of the dish. Next, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain it and set it aside for later.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it's crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving a bit of the bacon fat in the skillet for added flavor.
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese. Continue stirring until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the macaroni. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with the crispy bacon and parsley before serving.
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