Description
The “Pepper Jack Cheesy Pasta Delight” is a bold and comforting twist on traditional macaroni and cheese. Infusing the creamy classic with the spicy kick of pepper jack cheese, this dish promises to be a hearty and satisfying addition to any meal, especially for those who enjoy a little extra heat. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your weekday dinner routine or need a tasty dish to warm you up, this cheesy pasta will surely hit the spot.
Ingredients
- ½ pound uncooked elbow noodles or similar short pasta
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk (2% recommended)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- 1 ½ cups shredded pepper jack cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Step-by-step Directions
1. Prepare the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow noodles and cook until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Rue
Using the same pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat until it bubbles. Gradually whisk in the flour. Continue cooking until the mixture becomes thick and adopts a pale yellow color, ensuring each addition of flour is fully incorporated before adding more.
3. Create the Cheese Sauce
Gradually add the milk to the pot while continuously whisking to maintain a smooth consistency. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for added spice.
4. Combine Ingredients
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in both the pepper jack and mozzarella cheeses until the sauce is smooth and the cheese has completely melted. Return the cooked pasta to the pot, stirring until evenly coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
Servings & Preparation Time
This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened excessively. Stir continuously to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pot.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
The Pepper Jack Cheesy Pasta Delight is not just a dish; it’s a flavorful experience, perfect for those who love their meals with an extra dose of zest. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this recipe updates the classic comfort food to be as dynamic and lively as your taste buds desire. Perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or a comforting solo dinner, it’s sure to satisfy your craving for something creamy, cheesy, and just a little bit spicy.
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Pepper Jack Cheesy Pasta Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
The “Pepper Jack Cheesy Pasta Delight” is a bold and comforting twist on traditional macaroni and cheese. Infusing the creamy classic with the spicy kick of pepper jack cheese, this dish promises to be a hearty and satisfying addition to any meal, especially for those who enjoy a little extra heat. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your weekday dinner routine or need a tasty dish to warm you up, this cheesy pasta will surely hit the spot.
Ingredients
- ½ pound uncooked elbow noodles or similar short pasta
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk (2% recommended)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- 1 ½ cups shredded pepper jack cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow noodles and cook until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make the Rue: Using the same pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat until it bubbles. Gradually whisk in the flour. Continue cooking until the mixture becomes thick and adopts a pale yellow color, ensuring each addition of flour is fully incorporated before adding more.
- Create the Cheese Sauce: Gradually add the milk to the pot while continuously whisking to maintain a smooth consistency. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for added spice.
- Combine Ingredients: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in both the pepper jack and mozzarella cheeses until the sauce is smooth and the cheese has completely melted. Return the cooked pasta to the pot, stirring until evenly coated with the creamy cheese sauce.