Craving comfort food with a spicy kick? Then look no further than this Mexican Skillet Mac & Cheese! Forget bland, boring mac and cheese – this vibrant dish blends the creamy goodness of classic mac and cheese with the bold flavors of Mexico. Imagine perfectly cooked pasta swimming in a creamy cheese sauce, infused with the zest of fire-roasted tomatoes, the subtle heat of jalapeños, and the smoky depth of chipotle peppers. This isn't your grandma's mac and cheese; it's a fiesta in a skillet! It's quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious, perfect for a weeknight meal or a fun weekend gathering.
This recipe delivers a satisfyingly cheesy and spicy experience without sacrificing ease and speed. We've simplified the process to minimize prep time while maximizing flavor. Forget complicated techniques and multiple dishes; everything cooks together in one skillet for effortless cleanup. Ready to transform your mac and cheese game? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Skillet
- Bowl
Ingredients
- Thick salsa
- Mac and cheese pasta
- Water: 2 cups
- Mac and cheese powder
- Black beans
- Corn
- Mexican blend cheese
- Sour cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the base
- Add thick salsa to the skillet.
- Add mac and cheese pasta to the skillet.
- Add 2 cups of water to the skillet.
- Add mac and cheese powder.
- Mix the ingredients.
Step 2. Simmer and add vegetables
- Turn the heat down.
- Cook on medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring periodically.
- Add black beans and corn.
- Stir everything together.
- Cook for another 10 minutes.
Step 3. Melt the cheese
- Add Mexican blend cheese and let it melt.
Step 4. Serve
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl.
- Top with sour cream.
Read more: Quick & Easy Pantry Mexican Rice with Rotel
Tips
- The macaroni and cheese is an unexpected but delicious addition.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-750
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 70-90g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian/vegan?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chorizo or substitute with vegetarian chorizo. For a vegan version, use a vegan cheese sauce and your preferred plant-based milk instead of dairy. You may also need to adjust the spices slightly to compensate for the different flavor profiles.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the components (cheese sauce, cooked pasta) separately ahead of time and assemble just before baking. However, the best texture is achieved when the whole dish is baked together.
This Mexican Skillet Mac & Cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a unique twist on a classic comfort food. Its vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a perfect weeknight meal or a fun addition to your next get-together. So ditch the takeout and embrace the deliciousness of this easy, cheesy, and spicy skillet creation!