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jalapeno popper Mac and cheese recipe
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Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese

Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy twist made entirely in one pot! Creamy, spicy Mac and cheese! 
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Course: Main Course

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2-3 jalapeños seeded and diced
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 8 ounces cream cheese cut into 8 pieces (it will melt easier)
  • 8 ounces dried penne
  • 3 cups milk whole milk is recommended but you can use whatever you have on hand
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt more to taste
  • ½ teaspoon dried ground mustard
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 8 ounces shredded monterey jack cheese
  • 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs or cracker crumbs (Ritz is reccomended)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400°
  • In a large skillet, saute peppers and onions. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in cream cheese and mix until it is melted. Add in the milk, and dry pasta.
  • Add seasonings: garlic powder, black pepper, salt, dried ground mustard and cayenne pepper.
  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer on medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring regularly, until pasta is cooked to al dente.
  • Meanwhile, combine Panko bread crumbs or cracker crumbs with butter and toss until well coated.
  • Once pasta is cooked, add Monterey Jack cheese and sharp cheddar cheese and stir to combine. If using an oven safe pan, top with crumbs and place in oven for 5-10 minutes to brown. Or, pour pasta into a 9x9 pan and top with bread crumbs and bake for 5-10 minutes.