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Dinner

Creamy Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese

This comforting pasta bake combines the spicy kick of jalapeño poppers with the creamy goodness of classic macaroni and cheese.

By Daily Recipes Book· 🌍 American· July 17, 2026
Creamy Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese
dailyrecipesbook.com
Prep
15 minutes
Cook
30 minutes
Total
45 minutes
Serves
6

There is something special about taking a favorite appetizer and turning it into a hearty meal. This dish brings together sharp cheddar, spicy peppers, and crispy bacon for a flavor combination that everyone at my table loves.

I like to keep the seeds in the jalapeños if I want an extra bit of heat, but feel free to remove them if you prefer a milder bite. It is the perfect cozy meal for a chilly evening when you want something satisfying and fun.

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 4 jalapeño peppers, seeded and diced
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a large baking dish.

  2. 2

    Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions until al dente, then drain.

  3. 3

    In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat and stir in the diced jalapeños, cooking for about 3 minutes until softened.

  4. 4

    Whisk the flour into the butter and jalapeños, cooking for one minute to remove the raw flour taste.

  5. 5

    Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce.

  6. 6

    Turn the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese and shredded cheddar until completely melted and creamy.

  7. 7

    Add the cooked macaroni and half of the crumbled bacon to the sauce, stirring until everything is well coated.

  8. 8

    Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish.

  9. 9

    In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and garlic powder, then sprinkle this over the top of the macaroni.

  10. 10

    Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

  11. 11

    Sprinkle the remaining bacon over the top before serving.

💡 Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can easily reheat individual portions in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy. Serve this alongside a simple side salad to balance out the richness.

#Comfort Food#Pasta#Dinner#Cheesy

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