Spicy Mac and Cheese
I don’t know about you, but I douse pretty much anything edible in hot sauce, mac and cheese FULLY included. So creating a spicy mac and cheese makes complete sense to me. Having said, that I was conscious not to just chuck in some hot sauce or chilli flakes and be done with it. In such case, I’ve added a range of spicy ingredients which together actually add a delicious flavour to the dish.
What makes this Spicy Mac and Cheese ‘Spicy’?
Fresh Jalapeño – Most are deseeded and placed INSIDE the mac and cheese, then we’ll slice one and place it ON TOP of the mac and cheese. Mustard – I recommend using Dijon. Hot Sauce – My favourite is Cholula!
None of the above is used just for the sake of it, but actually to create a really deep and complex spicy flavour. All measurements are adjustable, so fear not if you only like a mild spice. With the same token it’s an easy recipe to ramp up the spice too, so feel free to do so!
Jalapeño Mac and Cheese
The jalapeños are a key ingredient in this spicy mac and cheese, not only for their obvious spice but also for their gorgeous flavour. Jalapeños are notorious for working well with cheese and this recipe is no exception.
Fresh versus Jarred Jalapeño
My vote is for fresh if you can! I find you sometimes get a mild taste of the brine from the jarred jalapeños. They are also quite soft in the jar already and can go mushy after baking. Having said that, if you find ‘firmer’ pickled jalapeños and pat off as much brine as possible you’ll be fine!
Can I use other Chillis?
I tend to stick with jalapeños for the flavour and the fact they’re not too spicy. However, if you’re good with your chillis, and know and love a particular variety, you can sub if you want. In terms of the other ingredients for jalapeño mac and cheese, you’ll need a 3 cheese combo of cheddar, mozzarella and parmesan. Some bacon, because is a mac and cheese a mac and cheese without bacon?! And alongside the spices we discussed, some onion/garlic powder for extra flavour and your mac and cheese staples (milk, flour, pasta, etc).
Skillet vs Baking Dish
I originally made this by combining everything in a regular pan, and then transferring it to a baking dish to bake. More recently I’ve moved to use a cast-iron skillet, where everything can be made and baked in the same pan. No difference in result – just whatever’s easiest for you! Process shots: fry bacon and jalapeño (photo 1), melt butter then add flour (photo 2), stir (photo 3), stir in milk then add mustard, hot sauce and seasoning (photo 4), stir in cheese (photo 5), add pasta (photo 6).
Baked Jalapeño Mac and Cheese
For me, a mac and cheese ain’t a mac and cheese unless it’s baked. I don’t know why but it always makes me a little sad when I see mac and cheese in a pan and then served up straight away. Baking it in the oven enhances those cheesy flavours so much. PLUS, you get a gorgeous crispy top.
Baked Mac and Cheese Topping
Layer 1 – Parmesan Layer 2 – Breadcrumbs Layer 3 – Oil Spray Layer 4 – Jalapeno
Process shots: stir in pasta (photo 1), top with parmesan, breadcrumbs and oil spray (photo 2), bake then add jalapeños (photo 3), bake again (photo 4).
Serving Spicy Mac and Cheese
From there the smell in your kitchen is going to be an absolute blessing! I recommend tucking in right away; the longer it sits the drier it gets. Trust me, you’re going to fall in love with this recipe 😋 If you’re looking for more recipes using fresh jalapeños then definitely check out my Crispy Baked Jalapeño Poppers and Jalapeño Popper Loaded Potatoes! If you’re looking for more mac and cheese goodness then give these recipes a ganders:
Best Mac and Cheese Variations
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Brie Mac and Cheese Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Roasted Garlic Mac and Cheese Chipotle Mac and Cheese
Alrighty, let’s tuck into the full recipe shall we?!
How to make Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese (Full Recipe & Video)
Got leftovers? Check out my Mini Leftover Mac and Cheese Quesadillas!
If you loved this Spicy Mac and Cheese recipe then be sure to Pin it for later! Already made it or got a burning question? Give me a shout in the comments below and pick up your free ecookbook along the way!
