Chili Spiced Macaroni and Cheese

(125)

A Note from Feedfeed

Everyone loves a good recipe mash-up, and I am especially here for the marriage of chili and mac & cheese! The spice from fresh jalapeños and chili powder and acidity from  Tuttorosso Northern Herb Petite Diced Tomatoes adds a touch of freshness to a classic macaroni and cheese. The end result is nothing short of carb, cheese & spice perfection! Make it for a decadent game day treat, or as an easy weeknight dinner option that will leave you with plenty of leftovers to pack for lunch!

Looking for more indulgent pasta inspo? Check out this Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini!

Jump to Section
  • Recipe Card
Prep time 20mins
Cook time 30mins
Serves or Makes: 8

Recipe Card

ingredients

  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated (about 2 cups)
  • 8 ounces pepper jack, grated (about 2 cups)
  • 8 ounces Gruyere cheese, grated (about 2 cups)
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • 1 pound pasta
  • 6 tablespoons butter, plus more for buttering the dish
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 4 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Pinch cayenne
  • Black peppercorns, freshly ground, to taste
  • 2 (14.5 ounce cans) Tuttorosso Northern Herb Petite Diced Tomatoes

To garnish

ingredients

  • sliced scallions
  • Red pepper flakes

Method

  • Step 1

    Add all of the grated cheese to a large bowl and mix to combine. Set aside.

  • Step 2

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add pasta and cook for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

  • Step 3

    To the same pot, add butter and let melt. Once melted, add red onion, garlic and jalapeño. Season to taste with salt. Let cook for about 5 minutes, or until vegetables begin to soften.

  • Step 4

    Add flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it starts to smell nutty. Slowly whisk in milk and mix until it is all incorporated. Switch to a wooden spoon and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 4-6 minutes. Whisk in chili powder, cumin, cayenne, salt and pepper. Add tomatoes and stir to combine.

  • Step 5

    Remove from heat and add cheese. Stir until melted. Add pasta and stir until well coated.

  • Step 6

    Serve at once garnished with sliced scallions and red pepper flakes.