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Comfort food has a way of wrapping us in warmth, evoking memories of home-cooked meals and cherished family gatherings. Among the many beloved classics, mac and cheese stands out as a timeless dish that appeals to both young and old alike. Its creamy, cheesy goodness is a universal favorite, but what if we could elevate this classic comfort food with a twist of bold flavors? Enter the Spicy Hatch Chili Mac and Cheese Skillet, a delightful fusion that marries the rich, comforting elements of traditional mac and cheese with the smoky, spicy goodness of Hatch green chilies.

Hatch Chili Mac and Cheese Skillet

Elevate your comfort food game with this Spicy Hatch Chili Mac and Cheese Skillet, a delicious twist on the classic dish. Combining creamy cheeses, smoky Hatch green chilies, and a blend of spices, this one-skillet meal is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, every bite offers a satisfying warmth that will impress everyone at the table. Discover how to create this indulgent dish and make it a family favorite!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups roasted Hatch green chilies, diced (fresh or canned)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on spice preference)

2 cups whole milk

8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

4 oz pepper jack cheese, shredded

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and black pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil, then add elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, combine the unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, stirring until the garlic is fragrant.

      Add the Chilies and Spices: Incorporate the diced Hatch green chilies into the skillet along with ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir everything together well and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to release their flavors.

        Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Gradually pour in the whole milk while continuously stirring. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it’s simmering, slowly add the shredded sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheese. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Gently fold the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is fully coated with the luscious cheese mixture.

            Optional Breadcrumb Topping: If you prefer a crispy topping, preheat your oven's broiler. Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs over the top. Broil for 2-3 minutes or until the topping is beautifully golden brown and crispy.

              Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for about a minute to cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a vibrant touch. Serve hot and enjoy your deliciously spicy Hatch Chili Mac and Cheese!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings