Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this creamy and spicy pepper jack stovetop macaroni and cheese! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, and trust me, once you try it, you won’t want to go back to the plain stuff. The moment you take that first bite, the rich creaminess mixes with just the right amount of kick from the pepper jack cheese, elevating this classic comfort food to a whole new level. I love how quick and easy it is to whip up on a busy weeknight or when I just want to indulge in something delicious. With its gooey cheese and comforting pasta, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine!
Ingredients for Pepper Jack Stovetop Macaroni Cheese
Gather these simple ingredients to create your creamy and spicy masterpiece:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni: This is the classic pasta choice that holds onto the cheesy goodness perfectly.
- 2 cups milk: Whole milk works best for that rich creaminess, but feel free to use what you have on hand.
- 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese: This is where the magic happens! It adds a spicy kick and melty texture.
- 1/4 cup butter: For that luscious base, butter brings all the flavors together.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This helps thicken your cheese sauce, making it wonderfully creamy.
- 1/2 tsp salt: A little seasoning enhances the flavors, but adjust to your taste!
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Just a pinch for a subtle zing.
- 1/4 tsp paprika: This adds a nice depth of flavor and a touch of warmth.
How to Prepare Pepper Jack Stovetop Macaroni Cheese
Now, let’s get to the fun part—making this delicious pepper jack stovetop macaroni and cheese! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, grab a medium saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
- Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until it’s well combined and bubbly—this is your roux!
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook this mixture, stirring frequently, until it starts to simmer and thicken, about 3–5 minutes.
- Now, it’s time for the star of the show! Add the shredded pepper jack cheese to the sauce and stir until it’s completely melted and smooth.
- Finally, add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta is well-coated in that creamy goodness. Serve hot, and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pepper jack stovetop macaroni cheese is a game-changer in the world of comfort food! You’ll love it for so many reasons:
- Quick and Easy: It comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The spicy pepper jack cheese adds a delicious twist that takes classic mac and cheese to a whole new level.
- Creamy Comfort: The rich, velvety cheese sauce hugs every elbow macaroni, delivering a mouthwatering experience.
- Customizable: Feel free to tweak the spice level or add your favorite mix-ins for a personal touch!
- Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike will devour!
Tips for Success
To ensure your pepper jack stovetop macaroni cheese turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips!
- Don’t skip the salt in the pasta water: This small step enhances the flavor of the pasta itself, making every bite better.
- Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully!
- Adjust the spice: If you want to dial up the heat, add a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot, so have your bowls ready!
- Experiment with add-ins: Try adding cooked chicken, broccoli, or even crispy bacon for a delightful twist.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values for a serving of this delicious pepper jack stovetop macaroni cheese:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 5g
Remember, these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but they give you a good idea of what to expect from this creamy, comforting dish!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making this pepper jack stovetop macaroni cheese? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute with cheddar or Monterey Jack if you want a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that it won’t have that spicy kick!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently and mix with freshly cooked pasta.
What can I add for extra toppings?
I love to sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top and broil it for a crispy finish! You could also add diced tomatoes or sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to bring back that creamy texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it’s completely vegetarian! Just make sure to double-check your cheese for any non-vegetarian ingredients.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No worries! To store your delicious pepper jack stovetop macaroni cheese, simply transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stovetop over low heat. I recommend adding a splash of milk to help bring back that creamy texture as it warms up. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. Enjoy that cheesy goodness again!
Serving Suggestions
If you’re wondering what to pair with your creamy pepper jack stovetop macaroni and cheese, I’ve got some delicious ideas for you! This dish is fantastic on its own, but it also shines alongside a crisp garden salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for a protein boost that complements the cheesy goodness. You might also enjoy it with steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables, adding a vibrant touch and a healthy crunch. And don’t forget a slice of warm garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that cheesy sauce—yum!
Pepper Jack Stovetop Macaroni Cheese: 5 Creamy Delights
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy and spicy pepper jack stovetop macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add flour, salt, pepper, and paprika; stir until combined.
- Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly.
- Add the pepper jack cheese and stir until melted.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less pepper jack cheese.
- For a creamier texture, add more milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: pepper jack stovetop macaroni cheese
