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Creamy Hatch Green Chili Mac and Cheese

creamy Hatch green chili mac and cheese - featured image
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A comforting and spicy mac and cheese featuring roasted Hatch green chilis and smoky gouda cheese for a creamy, flavorful twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups roasted and chopped Hatch green chilis (fresh or canned)
  • 8 ounces shredded smoked gouda cheese
  • 4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups warmed whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. If using fresh Hatch green chilis, roast over an open flame or under the broiler until skin is charred and blistered, about 5-7 minutes per side. Steam in a covered bowl or plastic bag for 10 minutes, then peel, seed, and chop finely. If using canned, drain and chop.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for about 2 minutes until golden and nutty but not browned.
  4. Gradually whisk in warmed whole milk, adding garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, whisking often, for 5-7 minutes until sauce thickens to coat the back of a spoon.
  5. Lower heat to low. Stir in shredded smoked gouda and sharp cheddar a handful at a time until melted and smooth. Fold in chopped Hatch green chilis. Adjust seasoning and add cayenne pepper if desired.
  6. Add drained macaroni to the sauce and fold gently until noodles are fully coated. Add more warm milk if sauce is too thick.
  7. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra smoked paprika or fresh chopped cilantro.

Notes

Warm the milk before adding to the roux to prevent lumps. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting and texture. Control heat carefully to avoid clumping. Roasting Hatch chilis enhances flavor but canned can be used for convenience. Add cayenne pepper for extra heat if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, Hatch green chili, smoked gouda, comfort food, creamy, spicy, easy recipe

Find it online: https://morselora.com/creamy-hatch-green-chili-mac-and-cheese-recipe-5-easy-steps-for-perfect-flavor/