Here’s a list of ingredients for **homemade spicy mac and cheese with tomatoes**, optimized for SEO-friendly formatting and keywords:
- **Elbow macaroni** (or your preferred pasta shape)
- **Sharp cheddar cheese** (shredded, for creamy texture)
- **Monterey Jack cheese** (shredded, for extra meltiness)
- **Cream cheese** (for richness and creaminess)
- **Whole milk** (or heavy cream for a richer sauce)
- **Unsalted butter** (for the roux base)
- **All-purpose flour** (to thicken the cheese sauce)
- **Diced tomatoes** (canned or fresh, for a tangy twist)
- **Jalapeños** (fresh or pickled, for a spicy kick)
- **Garlic** (minced, for added flavor)
- **Onion** (finely chopped, for depth of flavor)
- **Paprika** (smoked or regular, for a hint of spice)
- **Cayenne pepper** (adjust to taste for extra heat)
- **Crushed red pepper flakes** (optional, for more spice)
- **Salt** (to taste)
- **Black pepper** (freshly ground, for seasoning)
- **Breadcrumbs** (optional, for a crispy topping)
- **Parmesan cheese** (optional, for a cheesy crust)
- **Fresh parsley** (chopped, for garnish)
This **spicy mac and cheese recipe** combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the bold flavors of tomatoes and jalapeños, making it a perfect comfort food with a kick!
Steps
# How to Make Homemade Spicy Mac and Cheese with Tomatoes
Craving a comforting yet bold dish? This **homemade spicy mac and cheese with tomatoes** combines creamy cheese, a kick of heat, and juicy tomatoes for a flavorful twist on a classic. Follow these detailed steps to create a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
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## **Ingredients**
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese (for spice)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for sautéing tomatoes)
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Cook the Pasta**
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
### **2. Prepare the Tomatoes**
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 cup of diced tomatoes and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Set aside.
### **3. Make the Cheese Sauce**
- In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in 3 tbsp flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook the sauce for 5-7 minutes until it thickens.
### **4. Add the Cheese**
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of pepper jack cheese.
- Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
### **5. Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Tomatoes**
- Add the cooked pasta and sautéed tomatoes to the cheese sauce.
- Stir until everything is evenly coated.
### **6. Optional: Add a Crunchy Topping**
- In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup breadcrumbs with 1 tbsp melted butter.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the mac and cheese for a crispy finish.
### **7. Bake (Optional)**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
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## **Serving Suggestions**
Serve your **spicy mac and cheese with tomatoes** hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chopped green onions. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
This **homemade spicy mac and cheese** is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors, with the added freshness of tomatoes. It’s easy to customize—adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings like bacon or jalapeños.
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## **SEO Keywords**
- Homemade spicy mac and cheese
- Spicy mac and cheese with tomatoes
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Enjoy this delicious, **spicy mac and cheese with tomatoes** that’s sure to become a family favorite!