Are you a fan of comfort food with a twist? Look no further than this delicious Tex Mex Macaroni and Cheese recipe that combines the creaminess of classic mac and cheese with the bold flavors of Tex Mex cuisine. Perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests at your next gathering, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dish!
Tex Mex Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients:
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups whole milk
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cooked and diced chicken breast
– 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
– 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, until the mixture is bubbling and slightly golden.
4. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add the cooked chicken, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce. Mix well.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese and chicken mixture, stirring until everything is well combined.
8. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
9. Top the dish with crushed tortilla chips for an added crunch.
10. Bake the Tex Mex Macaroni and Cheese in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
11. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
12. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro before serving, if desired.
Tex Mex Macaroni and Cheese is a delightful fusion of creamy cheese, zesty spices, and hearty ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish alongside your favorite Tex Mex-inspired entrees. The flavors in this mac and cheese are sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it a great option for family meals. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and treat yourself to a taste of Tex Mex comfort today!
