Are you craving a comforting meal that combines cheesy goodness with a zesty kick? Look no further than this delectable recipe for Macaroni Cheese And Salsa. It’s a delightful dish that marries the creaminess of classic mac and cheese with the bold flavors of homemade salsa. Perfect for a cozy night in or entertaining friends and family, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Let’s get cooking!
**Macaroni Cheese And Salsa**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Salsa Ingredients:**
– 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño, diced (seeds removed for milder salsa)
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Macaroni:** Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. **Make the Cheese Sauce:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture starts to thicken.
3. **Add Cheese:** Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. **Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:** Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
5. **Prepare the Salsa:** In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
6. **Bake and Serve:** Spread the salsa over the macaroni and cheese evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.
7. **Enjoy:** Serve your Macaroni Cheese And Salsa hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired. Pair with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that will delight your taste buds.
This Macaroni Cheese And Salsa recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite that will add a burst of flavor to your dinner table. The creamy mac and cheese combined with the fresh and tangy salsa create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will leave you and your loved ones wanting more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is a winner. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor every bite of this irresistible dish!
