Best 3 Southwest Mac Cheese Recipes
Indulge your taste buds in a tantalizing culinary journey with our irresistible Southwest Mac and Cheese, an extraordinary fusion of bold flavors and comforting textures. This delectable dish combines the classic cheesiness of macaroni and cheese with a vibrant Southwestern twist. We've curated a collection of recipes that cater to diverse preferences, ensuring there's something for every palate and dietary need. Embark on a culinary adventure as you explore our traditional, vegetarian, and vegan versions of this beloved classic, each boasting unique ingredients and cooking methods. Get ready to embark on a flavor-packed experience that celebrates the harmonious blend of creamy cheese, zesty spices, and hearty macaroni.
Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!
SOUTHWEST MAC & CHEESE WITH OPTIONAL CHICKEN
A south-of-the-border twist on classic mac and cheese. Black beans, corn, mild green chilies (or hot, depending on your preference), chili powder, and optional chunks of chicken for the meat-eaters join up with an uber-creamy, cheesy pasta topped with a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips. And then baked to perfection.
Provided by Kare for Kitchen Treaty
Time 55m
Number Of Ingredients 18
Steps:
- Boil the pasta until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking, and return to the pan you boiled it in. Set aside.
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Set out six individual, oven-safe ramekins or gratin dishes for individual servings, two 5"x8" baking dishes if you're cooking up one dish with meat and one without, or an 8"x8"/two-quart baking dish if cooking it all in one big batch.
- In a medium bowl, toss together the cheddar, monterey jack, and Parmesan cheeses. Set aside.
- Over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour, salt, dry mustard, chili powder, pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika. Stir constantly over medium heat for about three minutes.
- Slowly whisk in the milk. Continuing over medium heat, whisk frequently for about 10 minutes, until the sauce thickens (as the sauce gets thicker, I recommend going from frequent stirs to constant stirs to help avoid burning).
- Remove from heat, and stir in 2 cups of the cheese. Continue stirring until cheese is melted, then add the green chilies and corn. Stir until combined. Select your version from the options below to continue.
SOUTHWEST MAC AND CHEESE
Make and share this Southwest Mac and Cheese recipe from Food.com.
Provided by MamaRebe
Categories One Dish Meal
Time 20m
Yield 4-6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Brown and strain the sausage.
- Start the shells and cheese cooking as the box directs only use a cup more water.
- Dice up the zucchini. I slice it thick with the skin on then quarter each slice.
- When the water starts to boil add the shells and zucchini.
- When the shells are tender drain the pot.
- Open and drain the can of rotel.
- Add all ingredients in to the pot adding the cheese package. ( I add a handful of my fav shredded cheese and 1/3 cup milk in addition to the packet.
- Salt and pepper to taste :).
Nutrition Facts : Calories 213, Fat 18, SaturatedFat 6.4, Cholesterol 43.1, Sodium 645.8, Carbohydrate 4, Fiber 0.5, Sugar 1.2, Protein 9.1
SOUTHWEST MAC & CHEESE
A rich, warm comfort food that kids and grandchildren love.
Provided by Debbie Gurley
Categories Pasta Sides
Time 35m
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- 1. Boil pasta until al dente. In a large skillet, add olive oil and saute garlic and vegetables over medium heat for a couple of minutes. Add in canned chilies and stir around, then turn off heat. Drain pasta and add it to skillet. Pour on cream, add cheese, then add salt and pepper to taste and stir gently. Can be topped with seasoned bread crumbs.
Tips:
- Use a good quality cheese: The type of cheese you use will make a big difference in the flavor of your mac and cheese. For a classic flavor, use a sharp cheddar cheese. For a more complex flavor, try using a blend of cheeses, such as cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyère.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package directions, but be careful not to overcook it. Overcooked pasta will make your mac and cheese mushy.
- Make a roux: A roux is a mixture of butter and flour that is used to thicken sauces. Making a roux will help to give your mac and cheese a creamy and smooth texture.
- Use milk and cream: Milk and cream add richness and flavor to mac and cheese. You can use whole milk, low-fat milk, or even non-fat milk. If you're using non-fat milk, you may want to add a little bit of butter or olive oil to help give the sauce a richer flavor.
- Season the mac and cheese: Salt, pepper, and garlic powder are all essential seasonings for mac and cheese. You can also add other spices, such as chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika, to taste.
- Top with your favorite toppings: Mac and cheese is a great dish to serve with a variety of toppings. Some popular toppings include bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped bacon, and diced tomatoes.
Conclusion:
Southwest mac and cheese is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit. With its creamy and cheesy sauce, tender pasta, and flavorful toppings, southwest mac and cheese is a dish that everyone will love.
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