Pepper Jack Stovetop Macaroni & Cheese

by

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Pepper Jack Stovetop Macaroni & Cheese recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and with a hint of spice from the pepper jack, this quick and easy dish is sure to become a favorite for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home.

Ingredients:

  • ½ pound uncooked elbow noodles or similar short pasta
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups milk (I used 2%)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • 1 ½ cups pepper jack cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Directions:

  1. Boil the Noodles: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the noodles until al dente. Drain noodles and set aside.
  2. Make the Roux: Using the same pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat until bubbly. Whisk in the flour, one tablespoon at a time, making sure to fully cook each addition. Cook the flour until it is no longer raw. The mixture (a roux) should be thick and pale yellow.
  3. Add Milk and Seasonings: Add in the milk while whisking. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and is creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Incorporate Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheeses. Stir until fully melted and incorporated.
  5. Combine with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the cheese mixture and stir to fully coat.

Nutritional Information

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 6

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve your Pepper Jack Stovetop Macaroni & Cheese as a standalone meal for a comforting dinner option.
  • Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition and flavor contrast.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
  • For a heartier meal, add cooked bacon or diced ham to the macaroni and cheese before serving.

Storage Guidelines:

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • When reheating, add a splash of milk to the macaroni and cheese to help restore its creamy texture.
  • You can also freeze individual portions of the macaroni and cheese in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.
  • To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding extra cheese or milk as needed to maintain creaminess.

Presentation Tips:

  • Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a serving dish and sprinkle with additional shredded cheese for an extra cheesy presentation.
  • Serve in individual ramekins or mini skillets for a charming and portion-controlled presentation.
  • Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before serving for added texture and crunch.
  • Garnish with a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and flair.

Enjoy your Pepper Jack Stovetop Macaroni & Cheese and impress your family and friends with these serving and storage tips!

Variations:

1. Bacon and Jalapeño Macaroni & Cheese:

  • Add cooked and crumbled bacon along with diced jalapeños to the macaroni and cheese mixture for a smoky and spicy twist.

2. Broccoli Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese:

  • Stir in steamed broccoli florets and extra shredded cheddar cheese to the macaroni and cheese for a comforting and nutritious variation.

3. Buffalo Chicken Macaroni & Cheese:

  • Toss shredded cooked chicken in buffalo sauce and mix it into the macaroni and cheese before serving. Top with blue cheese crumbles for a deliciously tangy kick.

4. Lobster Macaroni & Cheese:

  • Add chunks of cooked lobster meat to the macaroni and cheese mixture for an indulgent and luxurious twist on this classic dish.

5. Spinach and Artichoke Macaroni & Cheese:

  • Stir in chopped cooked spinach and marinated artichoke hearts to the macaroni and cheese for a flavorful and veggie-packed variation.

6. Taco Macaroni & Cheese:

  • Season the macaroni and cheese mixture with taco seasoning and mix in cooked ground beef or turkey. Top with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and a dollop of sour cream before serving.

7. Pesto Macaroni & Cheese:

  • Swirl in homemade or store-bought pesto sauce to the macaroni and cheese for a vibrant and herby variation.

8. Italian Sausage and Pepper Macaroni & Cheese:

  • Cook sliced Italian sausage and bell peppers until golden brown and mix them into the macaroni and cheese for a flavorful and satisfying twist.

9. Truffle Macaroni & Cheese:

  • Drizzle truffle oil over the macaroni and cheese just before serving for an elegant and luxurious variation.

10. Vegan Macaroni & Cheese:

  • Substitute dairy-free butter, milk, and cheese alternatives for a plant-based version of this classic dish. Nutritional yeast can also be added for a cheesy flavor.

11. Four Cheese Macaroni & Cheese:

  • Use a combination of cheddar, gouda, parmesan, and pepper jack cheese for a rich and complex flavor profile.

12. BBQ Pulled Pork Macaroni & Cheese:

  • Mix in some leftover BBQ pulled pork for a sweet and smoky twist that’s sure to satisfy.

13. Greek Macaroni & Cheese:

  • Stir in crumbled feta cheese, black olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a handful of fresh spinach for a Mediterranean-inspired variation.

14. Caprese Macaroni & Cheese:

  • Add cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and small mozzarella balls to the macaroni and cheese. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

15. Mushroom and Truffle Macaroni & Cheese:

  • Sauté mushrooms in butter until golden brown and add them to the macaroni and cheese. Finish with a drizzle of truffle oil.

Experiment with these delicious variations to customize your Pepper Jack Stovetop Macaroni & Cheese and discover new favorite flavors!

 FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

  • Yes, you can use any type of short pasta such as penne, rigatoni, or shells instead of elbow noodles.

2. How spicy is the Pepper Jack Stovetop Macaroni & Cheese?

  • The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your preference by adding more or less pepper jack cheese and red pepper flakes.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

  • Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

  • Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar, gouda, or fontina for unique flavor variations.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

  • While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Add a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

6. How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

  • Make sure to cook the flour until it’s fully incorporated into the butter to form a smooth roux. Also, gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.

7. Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?

  • Yes, you can freeze individual portions of the macaroni and cheese in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

8. Can I omit the red pepper flakes if I don’t like spicy food?

  • Yes, feel free to omit the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder flavor profile.

9. How can I make this dish more nutritious?

  • You can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas to boost the nutritional content of the dish.

10. What can I serve with Pepper Jack Stovetop Macaroni & Cheese?

  • It pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy the rich and satisfying flavors of homemade macaroni and cheese in no time. Perfect for serving as a main dish or as a delicious side alongside your favorite entrée.