Green Chili Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food, combining the creamy richness of traditional mac and cheese with the vibrant flavors of mild green chilies. This dish is perfect for adding a little spice and excitement to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or entertaining guests, this Green Chili Mac and Cheese will surely impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this delicious dish step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- One 4.5-ounce can diced mild green chilies (juice included)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup half-and-half
- 1/4 wedge of a yellow onion
- 2 large cloves of garlic, peeled and smashed
- 1 teaspoon iodized salt
- 1 3/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (set aside 1/4 cup for later)
- 1 3/4 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese (set aside 1/4 cup for later)
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped cilantro
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Melt Butter: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Add the 1/4 wedge of yellow onion and the smashed garlic cloves to the saucepan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then remove the onion and garlic.
- Add Flour: Stir in the all-purpose flour, cooking for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Add Green Chilies: Pour in the can of diced mild green chilies along with their juice. Stir to combine.
- Add Milk and Half-and-Half: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and half-and-half, ensuring a smooth mixture.
- Season: Add 1 teaspoon of iodized salt, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Cheese and Pasta
- Add Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in 1 1/2 cups of Monterey Jack cheese and 1 1/2 cups of mild cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the pasta with the sauce.
Step 4: Bake the Mac and Cheese
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Monterey Jack cheese and 1/4 cup of mild cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serving
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and mildly spicy Green Chili Mac and Cheese!
Cooking Notes
- Green Chilies: The mild green chilies add a subtle spice without overwhelming heat. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can use medium or hot green chilies.
- Cheese: Using a combination of Monterey Jack and mild cheddar provides a creamy texture and rich flavor. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses if you like.
- Onion and Garlic: Cooking the onion and garlic in the butter infuses the sauce with additional flavor. Make sure to remove them after sautéing to keep the sauce smooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or shells. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover Green Chili Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: Yes, you can freeze the mac and cheese before baking. Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this recipe, follow these modifications:
- Pasta: Use a low-carb pasta substitute like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
- Flour: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum.
- Milk and Half-and-Half: Use heavy cream diluted with water to reduce carbs.
Green Chili Mac and Cheese is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food, bringing together creamy cheese and a hint of spice for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy a flavorful, homemade treat that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying!
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