Print

Creamy Hatch Green Chile Mac and Cheese Recipe with Crispy Breadcrumbs

Hatch green chile mac and cheese - featured image
Print Recipe

A creamy, cheesy mac and cheese with a smoky Southwestern twist from Hatch green chiles, topped with crispy golden breadcrumbs for texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup diced roasted Hatch green chiles
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Whisk in all-purpose flour and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until smooth and nutty smelling.
  3. Gradually pour in whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Lower heat and stir in sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth. Add diced roasted Hatch green chiles, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  5. Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat. Add a splash more milk if sauce is too thick.
  6. In a small skillet, heat olive oil or melted butter over medium heat. Add panko breadcrumbs and toast, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
  7. Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Evenly sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs over the top.
  8. Place under a preheated broiler for 2-4 minutes until breadcrumbs are crispy and golden. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  9. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt and texture. Watch the broiler closely to avoid burning the breadcrumbs. For gluten-free, substitute pasta, flour, and breadcrumbs accordingly. The recipe can be made ahead and refrigerated before broiling the topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, Hatch green chile, creamy, cheesy, comfort food, crispy breadcrumbs, Southwestern, easy recipe

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/creamy-hatch-green-chile-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-crispy-breadcrumbs-easy-and-best/