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Green Chili Mac and Cheese

Creamy Baked Green Chile Mac and Cheese Recipe

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 570
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar, shredded
  • 8 oz Monterey Jack, shredded
  • 2 (4 oz) cans diced green chiles, drained

Method
 

  1. Boil macaroni in salted water for 7 minutes until shy of al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour for 1 minute, then slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  3. Whisk in cream cheese, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheeses and green chiles until melted.
  4. Fold the sauce into the drained pasta, transfer to a 3-quart baking dish, and spread evenly.
  5. Bake uncovered at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Let rest 5 minutes, then scoop and serve hot.

Notes

If you prefer a crunchy top, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or extra cheese over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking. The pasta will continue to absorb sauce as it cools, so scoop it as soon as you can after the short rest.