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Crispy Loaded Bacon Jalapeño Mac and Cheese with Easy Ranch Topping

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This indulgent comfort food features creamy mac and cheese loaded with crispy bacon, fresh jalapeños, and a crunchy ranch-seasoned panko topping. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for bold flavor and a little kick.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups dry)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2–3 fresh jalapeños, deseeded and diced
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions (optional)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp dry ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook for 6-7 minutes until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. While pasta cooks, fry bacon in a skillet until crispy (about 8 minutes). Place on paper towels, then crumble or chop. Dice jalapeños, removing seeds for milder heat.
  4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth, cooking for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened (about 3-4 minutes).
  5. Add cheddar, Monterey Jack, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
  6. Add drained macaroni to cheese sauce. Stir to coat evenly. Gently fold in crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, and green onions if using.
  7. Spoon the loaded mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
  8. In a bowl, mix panko, ranch seasoning, melted butter, and Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over mac and cheese.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until topping is golden and edges are bubbling.
  10. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and panko. Adjust jalapeños for desired spice level. Use freshly grated cheese for best texture. If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk. For extra crispiness, double the panko topping. Can be made ahead and baked when ready to serve.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, bacon, jalapeño, ranch, comfort food, casserole, easy dinner, potluck, cheesy, spicy, baked pasta

Find it online: https://wigglebite.com/crispy-loaded-bacon-jalape-n-o-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-ranch-topping/