Molten Chili Mac

Transform your perception of macaroni and cheese with this creamy, rich, and intensely flavorful spicy version. Featuring red pepper flakes, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, and fresh jalapeños, this dish offers a perfect balance of comforting indulgence and exciting heat. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing meal that promises to impress and satisfy with every cheesy, spicy bite.

Print Recipe

For the ultimate spicy mac and cheese, you’ll need the following high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s rich flavor and satisfying heat.

• 1 pound penne pasta (or your favorite short pasta like elbow macaroni or cavatappi)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing the baking dish
• 1 large sweet onion, finely chopped
• Coarse kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 garlic cloves, minced or very finely chopped
• 3 medium jalapeños (approximately 2 1/2 oz each), 2 seeded and chopped, and 1 thinly sliced for garnish (adjust quantity based on desired heat)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups 2% or whole milk, warmed (warming helps prevent lumps and promotes smooth melting of cheese)
• 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese, divided (freshly grated is always best for melting)
• 1/2 to 1 tablespoon dry mustard powder (enhances cheese flavor)
• 1 teaspoon store-bought or homemade hot sauce, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste
• 1 cup fresh plain, whole wheat, or panko bread crumbs (approximately 21 g)
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste (for the topping, adding an extra layer of heat)

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Oven

• Begin by preheating your oven to a steady 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and develops a beautiful golden crust. While the oven preheats, generously butter a 9-by-13-inch (23-by-33-cm) ovenproof casserole or baking dish. Don’t skimp on the butter; it helps prevent sticking and adds another layer of flavor.

Step 2: Perfectly Cook the Penne Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. A good rule of thumb is to make the water taste like the ocean; this seasons the pasta from within. Add the penne pasta and cook until it reaches an al dente texture, meaning it’s tender but still has a slight bite. Follow the package directions for precise cooking times. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and immediately return it to the empty pot. This keeps it warm and ready for the sauce.

Step 3: Craft the Decadent Spicy Cheese Sauce

• While the pasta cooks, start on your incredible cheese sauce. In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan set over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the chopped sweet onion and cook gently until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper as it cooks. Next, stir in the minced garlic and chopped jalapeños. Continue to cook for about 60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, stirring almost constantly to create a roux. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes; this step is crucial for cooking out the raw flour taste.
• Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, pouring it in a slow, steady stream while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which typically takes 2 to 5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat as soon as it reaches the desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce for Ultimate Creaminess

• To the warm cheese sauce, add 1 cup of the grated Gruyère cheese, the dry mustard powder, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a smooth, glossy sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed, and feel free to add more hot sauce or pepper flakes if you desire a spicier kick. Pour this luscious sauce directly over the drained penne pasta in the pot and stir gently to ensure every piece of pasta is thoroughly coated. Transfer this irresistible mixture into your prepared buttered casserole dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection and Serve

• In a small separate bowl, combine the bread crumbs, cayenne pepper, and the remaining 1 cup of grated Gruyère cheese. Season this topping mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper and stir to combine well. Evenly sprinkle this flavorful topping over the cheesy pasta in the casserole dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the mac and cheese is bubbling around the edges and the topping is beautifully golden brown and crispy.
• Once baked, remove from the oven. For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, top the hot mac and cheese with the thinly sliced raw jalapeños. Serve immediately, allowing everyone to savor the creamy, spicy, and perfectly textured delight.

Adapted From: Secrets of the Southern Table

This recipe is adapted from the acclaimed cookbook “Secrets of the Southern Table.” Explore more culinary delights and sophisticated twists on Southern classics by acquiring your own copy.

Buy On Amazon

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Understanding the nutritional value of your meal can be helpful for meal planning. Below is an approximate breakdown for one serving of this Spicy Macaroni and Cheese.