Green Chili Mac and Cheese – A Delicious Recipe

Introduction

As an avid lover of comfort food, I’m always on the lookout for new recipes that combine delicious flavors with a touch of warmth. One such recipe that has become a favorite in my household is Green Chili Mac and Cheese. This dish takes the classic mac and cheese to a whole new level by adding the perfect amount of heat and a burst of flavor with green chilies. In this article, I will share with you my tried and tested recipe for Green Chili Mac and Cheese that is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

Ingredients

To make this mouthwatering Green Chili Mac and Cheese, you will need the following ingredients:

– 2 cups elbow macaroni

– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

– 1 cup diced green chilies

– 1/4 cup butter

– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

– 2 cups milk

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Steps by Step Instructions

Now that we have gathered all the ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delicious Green Chili Mac and Cheese:

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk until well combined to create a roux.

Slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking the mixture to prevent any lumps from forming. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan and stir until melted and smooth.

Next, add the diced green chilies, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.

Step 3: Combine the Macaroni and Cheese Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and toss until the macaroni is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Bake the Mac and Cheese

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Keto and Low Carb Variations

If you are following a keto or low carb diet, you can make a few modifications to this recipe to make it suitable for your dietary needs. Here are some suggestions:

– Replace the elbow macaroni with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.

– Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for the cheese sauce.

– Substitute regular milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk.

– Opt for a combination of low carb cheeses such as mozzarella, cream cheese, and cheddar.

– Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.

Tips

Here are a few tips to ensure your Green Chili Mac and Cheese turns out perfect every time:

– Feel free to adjust the amount of green chilies based on your spice tolerance.

– If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips on top before baking.

– Experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique flavor profile.

– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Green Chili Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food that is sure to please your taste buds. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and a hint of spiciness from the green chilies, this dish is a winner for any occasion. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or opt for the keto and low carb variations, you can’t go wrong with this flavorful mac and cheese. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that will leave you craving for more!