This macaroni and cheese recipe is one of my absolute favorite go-to’s when I am looking for a unique twist to a traditional comfort food. Everyone loves a good homemade macaroni and cheese, but the bacon and hot pepper puts a spin on a classic that is sure to get your guests lining up for more! The addition of the bell peppers and jalapeños bring a freshness to the dish, while the bacon brings a nice sense of comfort.

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Growing up, my parents always made bacon on winter mornings, so I love any recipe that has just a tiny hint of that bacon smell and taste and helps revoke some of those memories. This recipe does just that. I have made this for casual dinner parties where I wanted to add an extra special something to a traditional meal, as well as for company potlucks when I didn’t want to show up with a stereotypical store bought dish.

Veggies for Mac N Cheese

Skillet Vegetables

Whether you are making this for a formal event or for a quick side dish for your family’s dinner tonight, this dish is sure to impress. I can guarantee that people will be lining up for seconds…and you better be careful because they will probably be back tomorrow!

Bacon and Hot Pepper Macaroni and Cheese
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Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
15 min
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
15 min
Ingredients
  1. 12 ounces macaroni elbows
  2. ½ cup green bell pepper, diced
  3. ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
  4. ½ white onion, diced
  5. 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
  6. 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  7. 3 tablespoons flour
  8. ½ cup half and half
  9. ¾ cup chicken broth
  10. 10 ounces shredded pepper-jack cheese, divided
  11. 4 ounces cream cheese
  12. 4 slices of crispy bacon, crumbled
  13. salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. Cook macaroni elbows according to box instructions.
  2. Saute peppers, onions, and jalapenos over medium heat until tender. (Usually about 3-5 minutes.)
  3. Add garlic and saute for another minute.
  4. Add flour and coat the vegetable mixture thoroughly.
  5. Add the half and half, chicken broth, 8 oz of pepper-jack cheese, and the cream cheese. Mix until fully combined and cheese is melted. Carefully stir in the crumbled bacon.
  6. In an oven safe bowl, add the macaroni elbows and cheese mixture, and carefully stir until all noodles are fully coated.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining 2 oz of pepper-jack cheese over your dish and bake in the oven for 3-5 minutes or until fully melted.
  8. Serve warm and enjoy!
The Everyday Hostess https://www.theeverydayhostess.com/
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