Spice up your mac and cheese with a Tex-Mex twist!

4 stars
4.29 (16)
Spice up your mac and cheese with a Tex-Mex twist!
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Total Time:
65mins
Recipe by Administrator
Published on May 20, 2024

This Tex-Mex Macaroni and Cheese recipe combines the creamy goodness of classic mac and cheese with the bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing party dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies, drained
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup crushed tortilla chips

Directions

  1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, jalapeno, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened.
  4. Add the cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
  5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the cilantro. Serve hot, topped with crushed tortilla chips.
  8. Enjoy your Tex-Mex Macaroni and Cheese!

Interesting Facts

  • Tex-Mex cuisine is a fusion of Mexican and American flavors, known for its use of spices and bold ingredients.
  • Adding diced tomatoes and green chilies to mac and cheese gives it a zesty kick and extra texture.
  • Cilantro and crushed tortilla chips add a fresh and crunchy finish to this dish.