Get your taste buds ready for a cheesy, spicy adventure with this delicious Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese recipe – let’s get cooking!
I am married with no kids. It is just us two, no parents, siblings, or crazed family members with nowhere to go. Just us. But yet I always, like no fail, always make a 9×13 baking dish of macaroni and cheese. I mean, way too much for two people. I am trying to figure out why I can’t use a smaller baking dish. I think it is my love for pasta. I always think I will need more. Then there is cheese…you can’t have enough of cheese, I mean come on! Butter needs no explanation and as for anything spicy or made with bacon, well, now I see why I can’t cut how much I bake nor eat!
In all seriousness though, I love macaroni and cheese. I get all excited about melty cheese. And this recipe has that melty cheese plus bacon with a kick of heat. YUM!
Cook Eat Delicious Rating: Once you go Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese you never go back. Each bite in this easy recipe leaves you wanting more. My DH and I loved it and nearly finished half the pan that night! You can control the spice with the amount of peppers you use and go crazy with the bacon if you want!
Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups hot milk
- 1 stick of butter
- ½ cup flour
- 4 cups Gruyere grated
- 2 cups sharp Cheddar grated
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- 1 jalapeno diced
- 12 slices of bacon cooked and crumbled
- Bread Crumbs
Instructions
- Boil pasta and drain well.
- Preaheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- Melt butter in a large pot over low heat and whisk in flour for 2 minutes.
- Stir constantly.
- Whisk in hot milk.
- Bring heat to high and boil mixture, whisking until thick and smooth.
- Remove from heat.
- Add in cheeses, salt, pepper, and numtmeg.
- Combine in the jalapeno and bacon and then add pasta.
- Pour into a 9×13 baking dish and top with bread crumbs.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- Enjoy!
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Options For Enjoying The Best Ever Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni And Cheese
If you’re looking for a low calorie option, try using cauliflower instead of macaroni in the recipe. This will help to reduce the overall amount of calories in the dish while still providing all of the same flavors and textures. Another option is to omit the bacon altogether – this will still be delicious but without any additional fat or protein. Finally, if you have gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions, feel free to choose some high quality dairy free cheese options like goat cheese or vegan cheese instead.
When it comes to flavor, you have a lot of options when making jalapeno bacon macaroni and cheese. You can play around with different spices and seasoning until you find something that suits your taste buds perfectly. Some popular combinations include black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, red pepper flakes, thyme leaves or oregano leaves. You can also cook the macaroni in a variety of ways based on what you have available – boiled or baked pasta works well in this recipe because they both absorb flavors well. And finally – because everyone has their own preferences – there are no wrong answers when it comes to topping your dish with extra ingredients like shredded cheese (or even vegetables).
By following these simple tips for making jalapeno bacon macaroni and cheese at home you’ll be able to enjoy an amazing dish that fits any dietary need or liking!
Cooking Tips for Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese
Let’s turn up the heat and talk more about crafting the perfect “Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese.” When it comes to this dish, it’s all about balancing flavors and textures to create a symphony in your mouth.
Starting with the jalapenos, the key is to tailor the spice to your audience. If you’re like me and live for that fiery kick, mince those jalapenos finely so that the heat is evenly distributed throughout the dish. This way, every forkful is a little adventure on its own. But, if you’re catering to a group where spice levels are as varied as their personalities, chopping the jalapenos into larger pieces gives everyone the chance to customize their plate – they can pick around them or dive right in!
Moving on to the star of the show: bacon. Who doesn’t love the smoky depth it adds? To achieve bacon nirvana, start with a cold pan, as mentioned earlier. But let’s not stop there. Consider the type of bacon you’re using – thick-cut bacon will give you a meatier chew, while thin slices become almost brittle when crisped up. And if you want to infuse your mac and cheese with even more bacon-y goodness, reserve some of the rendered fat and whisk it into your cheese sauce. It’s a game-changer, trust me.
Speaking of cheese sauce, let’s talk milk. Whole milk will give you the creamiest result, but if you’re looking to cut down on the richness (why though?), you can opt for a lower-fat alternative. Just remember, the creamier the milk, the silkier the sauce.
And what about the pasta? Al dente is the way to go. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook once it’s mixed with the hot cheese sauce and baked, so you want to give it a fighting chance to maintain some bite.
Lastly, don’t forget the layering. Layering your “Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese” with extra cheese and bacon between the pasta ensures that every scoop is as decadent as the last. And for those who like a bit of green, a fine dice of green onions or chives can add a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
There you have it, an extended version of cooking tips that’ll help you whip up a “Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese” that’s not just a meal, but an experience. Now go forth and conquer the kitchen!
FAQs About Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese
Q: How do I prevent my cheese sauce from getting grainy? A: This is a common hiccup in the quest for creamy cheese sauce nirvana. The trick lies in the gentle treatment of your cheese. Start with a roux – that’s your flour and butter mixture – to create a stable base. Then, warm your milk before adding it to the roux; this helps prevent clumping. Now, the cheese: add it slowly, on low heat, and don’t stop stirring. This isn’t the time to multitask – give your sauce the attention it deserves! And yes, freshly grated cheese is your best friend here because it lacks the anti-caking agents found in pre-shredded cheese, which can lead to graininess.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: You betcha! “Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese” is like the best kind of guest – it doesn’t mind waiting around. Assemble your masterpiece but hold off on the final bake. Wrap it up snugly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. This little pause gives the flavors time to mingle and get to know each other better, making for an even tastier dish.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? A: If by some miracle you have leftovers of “Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese,” reheating is a breeze. Pop it in the Best Mini Ovens at 350°F, covered with foil to keep the moisture in. Give it about 20 minutes, then remove the foil and let it go for another 10 minutes or so, until it’s heated through and the top is crispy again. Microwaving works too, but be sure to sprinkle a bit of water over the top and cover it to keep the mac and cheese from drying out.
Q: Is there a way to make this dish lighter without sacrificing flavor? A: For those looking to lighten the load, you can make a few swaps. Try using low-fat milk or even a milk alternative, though be prepared for a slight change in texture. Opt for turkey bacon or even veggie bacon to cut down on fat. And when it comes to cheese, choose strong-flavored ones like sharp cheddar or smoked gouda – you can use less cheese but still get a lot of bang for your buck in the flavor department.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish? A: Absolutely! “Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese” is incredibly versatile. Stir in some spinach or kale for a green boost, or add roasted red peppers for a sweet and smoky contrast to the spicy jalapenos. The key is to cook any additional veggies before adding them to the mix, so they’re just the right texture and don’t release too much water into your beautiful sauce.
With these expanded FAQs, you’re now equipped to tackle any hurdles that come your way in the pursuit of the perfect “Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese.” Go forth and create cheesy, bacon-y, spicy bliss!
How to Serve Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese with a Twist
Gather ’round, cheese lovers, for the grand finale of our “Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese” extravaganza. Serving this dish is an art form, a chance to sprinkle your own brand of magic on an already enchanting recipe.
Imagine a steaming bowl of this creamy, spicy delight waiting to be adorned with your favorite toppings. I’m partial to a generous scattering of crispy bacon bits – they’re like little gems of happiness that pop with every bite. And fresh parsley? It’s not just a pretty garnish; it brings a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness like a bright green ray of sunshine.
But why stop there when you can elevate your “Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese” to celestial heights? If you’re in the mood to impress, consider a golden breadcrumb topping. Mix panko breadcrumbs with a touch of melted butter and perhaps a whisper of garlic powder for an aromatic twist. Spread it over your mac and cheese and watch as it bakes to a perfect, crunchy crown that’s music to your ears and a dance party for your taste buds.
And for those who dare to be different, why not a drizzle of truffle oil just before serving? It’s like a velvet cloak that wraps around each noodle, imparting an earthy elegance that’ll have your guests tipping their hats to you.
The true beauty of “Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese,” though, lies in its power to bring people together. It’s a dish best shared amidst laughter and stories, where every spoonful is a warm hug for your soul. So call up your loved ones, set the table with your finest mismatched plates, and light some candles for ambiance. It’s time to create memories that are as rich and comforting as the dish you’re about to enjoy.
As you savor each bite, let the symphony of flavors remind you of the love that went into preparing it. The smoky bacon, the fiery jalapenos, the creamy cheese – they all dance together in a harmonious blend that’s as vibrant and joyful as life itself.
So there you have it, my friends – an extended guide on how to serve “Jalapeno Bacon Macaroni and Cheese” with flair and finesse. May your culinary journey be as delightful and satisfying as a heaping helping of this delectable dish. Bon appétit!
