This Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese is a must-try! Cheesy, slightly spicy pasta with jalapeños, bacon, and a crispy buttery topping baked to perfection!
author’s note
Swiftie Jalapeño Mac and Cheese!
I’m not a sports person, but I’m the biggest Taylor Swift fan and It is satisfying to food. When the Chiefs made it to the Super Bowl, I decided it was my year to host.
I planned the best spread: pigs in a blanket, ham and cheese sliders, and a jalapeño popper mac and cheese. The mac is rich and creamy with bacon, fresh jalapeños, and a crisp, buttery Panko topping.
I used my perfected baked mac as the base, then melted sharp Cheddar, cream cheese, and Pepper Jack into a silky sauce. It bakes up bubbly and golden, and every bite hits with heat, crunch, and gooey cheese.
Jalapeño Popper Mac And Cheese Ingredients
| Ingredient | Swap or Tip |
|---|---|
| Pasta | Short cuts with ridges grab sauce well. Cook slightly underdone. |
| Butter | Salted or unsalted both work. Toss with drained pasta to keep it from clumping. |
| Bacon | Use turkey bacon or skip and add 1 tsp smoked paprika. |
| Jalapeños | Use canned green chiles for extra mild. Add a serrano for more heat. |
| Seasonings | Use paprika, onion powder, dry mustard, and black pepper. |
| Milk | Whole milk or evaporated milk work best. Avoid low fat. |
| Cream Cheese | Soften first so it melts smooth and creamy. |
| Cheddar + Pepper Jack | Monterey Jack or mozzarella for less spice. Use extra sharp Cheddar for more bite. |
| Panko + Butter | Regular breadcrumbs work. mix in a little Parmesan for extra flavor. |
How To Make Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese (Tips)
- Cook Pasta: Boil until slightly firm, drain, and mix with butter.
- Cook Bacon: Fry bacon until crispy, keep nearby, and keep 1 spoon of grease.
- Jalapeños: Sauté jalapeños and garlic in the bacon grease with spices.
- Make Sauce: Melt butter, mix in flour, milk, and mix in cream cheese and shredded cheese until smooth.
- Combine: Stir pasta, bacon, and sauce together. Toast breadcrumbs in butter and add on top and bake.
Storage
Leftovers And Make Ahead Tips?
- Make ahead: Cook pasta and sauce, store separate. Chill. Warm sauce on low, thin with a splash of milk, then combine, top, bake.
- Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Reheat: Covered at 375°F for 15 to 20 mins until hot.
- Freeze: Not recommended. Freezing splits the cheese sauce and makes the pasta mushy, so the dish loses its creamy texture.
What To Serve With Mac and Cheese:
Salads
Caesar Salad Recipe
Side Dishes
Roasted Green Beans (Two Ways!)
Dinner
Grilled Chicken Marinade {With Video}
Appetizers
French Bread Recipe
