Chipotle Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 2 cups macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, grated
• 4 ounces pepper jack cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, Monterey Jack and pepper jack cheeses until melted. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, chipotle pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dry mustard, and black pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and Panko breadcrumbs.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden.

Interesting Facts

• Mac and cheese is a classic American comfort food dish.
• Chipotle peppers are smoked jalapeno peppers.
• The addition of Panko breadcrumbs adds a crunchy texture to the dish.