Creamy Pepper Jack Stovetop Macaroni & Cheese Recipe

Creamy, cheesy macaroni finds its spicy companion in this pepper jack stovetop macaroni & cheese that delivers a bold twist on a classic comfort dish.

The sharp, zesty pepper jack cheese melts into a luxurious sauce that coats every single pasta curve.

Sharp cheddar joins the party, creating a complex flavor profile that dances across your palate.

Each bite promises a delightful heat that builds gradually, warming you from the inside out.

Rich and indulgent, this stovetop mac and cheese breaks free from bland expectations.

You’ll savor the way the peppers infuse depth into every creamy forkful.

This recipe transforms a simple meal into a memorable culinary experience that beckons you to the kitchen.

Why Pepper Jack Stovetop Macaroni & Cheese Stands Out

• Pepper jack cheese adds a zesty kick that transforms traditional mac and cheese into an exciting, flavor-packed meal for those craving something beyond the ordinary.
• This stovetop recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want a delicious dinner without complicated techniques.
• Easily adjust the heat level by adding more or less red pepper flakes, creating a personalized dish that suits everyone's spice tolerance and flavor preferences.
• Prepare the entire meal in a single pot, reducing cleanup time and making this recipe an ideal solution for those who want maximum taste with minimal kitchen mess.

Everything Needed for Pepper Jack Stovetop Mac

• Pasta: A classic elbow macaroni that provides the perfect base for this creamy cheese dish.
• Butter: Adds rich flavor and helps create a smooth, velvety sauce base.
• Flour: Crucial for thickening the sauce and creating a perfect roux.
• Milk: Creates the creamy liquid foundation for the cheese sauce.
• Pepper Jack Cheese: Brings a spicy and bold cheese flavor to the macaroni.
• Cheddar Cheese: Provides a classic, sharp cheese taste and creamy texture.

• Salt, Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: Enhance the overall flavor profile with a balanced blend of seasoning.

• Optional Garnish, Fresh Herbs: Can add a fresh and colorful touch to the finished dish.

Stovetop Mac & Cheese: Must-Have Equipment

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta and making cheese sauce.
• Whisk: Perfect for smoothly blending roux and creating creamy sauce.
• Colander: Needed to drain pasta after cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring pasta and sauce together.
• Measuring cups: Help accurately measure milk and flour.
• Cheese grater: Use to shred pepper jack and other cheeses.
• Cutting board: Useful for grating cheese if needed.

How to Make Pepper Jack Stovetop Macaroni & Cheese

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a rolling boil.

Drop in the pasta and cook until it’s tender but still has a slight bite.

Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Create Silky Roux

Return the same pot to the stove over medium-high heat.

Melt the butter until it starts to bubble and foam.

Sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly to create a smooth, golden mixture.

Keep stirring for a few minutes until the roux turns a light, creamy yellow color.

Step 3: Transform Into Creamy Sauce

Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.

Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes velvety smooth.

The mixture should coat the back of a spoon easily.

Step 4: Spice Up And Cheese Out

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes

Stir in the shredded cheeses, mixing until they melt completely and create a luxurious, glossy sauce.

Step 5: Marry Pasta And Sauce

Add the drained pasta back into the pot.

Gently fold and stir until every single pasta piece is generously coated with the spicy, cheesy sauce.

Serve immediately while hot and bubbling.

Tips for Ultra Creamy, Spicy Mac and Cheese

• Stir pasta immediately after draining to stop pieces from sticking together and ensure even cheese sauce coverage.
• Whisk flour slowly into melted butter, cooking until the mixture turns pale yellow to eliminate raw flour taste and create a smooth base.
• Remove pot from heat before adding cheese to prevent sauce from becoming grainy or separating, ensuring a silky texture.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on personal heat preference – start with a pinch and add more for extra kick or omit completely for mild version.
• If sauce seems too thick, splash in a little warm milk or pasta water to reach desired creaminess without losing rich flavor.

Pepper Jack Mac: Cheesy Twists and Add-Ins

• Spicy Jalapeño Mac: Replace Pepper Jack with extra sharp cheddar and add diced fresh jalapeños for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
• Protein-Packed Option: Mix in cooked diced chicken or crumbled bacon to boost protein content and add more savory flavor.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in roasted broccoli florets or sautéed spinach for added nutrition and color to the classic mac and cheese.

Creative Ways to Serve Stovetop Mac & Cheese

• Cheesy Comfort Companions: Pepper Jack Stovetop Mac & Cheese Serving Ideas
• Crispy Bacon Bliss: Sprinkle crumbled crispy bacon bits on top for a smoky, salty crunch that perfectly complements the creamy pepper jack cheese.
• Fresh Green Kick: Garnish with chopped fresh chives or green onions to add a bright, zesty pop of color and a subtle oniony freshness.
• Spicy Crunch Topper: Scatter toasted breadcrumbs or crushed jalapeño chips over the mac and cheese for an extra layer of texture and heat that matches the pepper jack's spiciness.
• Hearty Side Pairing: Serve alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the rich, cheesy pasta with a lighter, nutritious element.

Best Storage for Leftover Pepper Jack Mac

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer mac and cheese to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for 2-3 months. Avoid freezing for longer to maintain quality.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Add splash of milk to restore creaminess. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Stop when steaming hot.
• Warm mac and cheese in a pan over medium-low heat. Add milk or cream gradually, stirring continuously to prevent sticking. Restore sauce's smooth texture by mixing gently until heated through.

FAQs

• What makes Pepper Jack cheese different from other cheeses?

Pepper Jack is a semi-soft cheese with spicy jalapeño peppers mixed in, giving it a zesty kick and slightly spicier flavor compared to traditional cheeses like cheddar or monterey jack.

• Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this recipe?

While possible, freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and prevents clumping. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.

• How do I prevent my cheese sauce from becoming lumpy?

Always add milk gradually while whisking constantly, and keep the heat at medium to ensure a smooth, creamy texture without scorching the sauce.

Pepper Jack Stovetop Macaroni & Cheese Recipe

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4.7 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Pepper jack stovetop macaroni & cheese delivers a spicy twist on classic comfort food. Creamy cheese sauce and zesty pepper jack create a quick, satisfying meal for cheese enthusiasts who crave bold flavors.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound uncooked elbow noodles or similar short pasta
• 1 1/2 cups pepper jack cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Sauce Base Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk (2%)

Seasoning Ingredients:

• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Cook pasta until tender yet firm, approximately 8-9 minutes. Drain thoroughly in a colander and set aside.
2. Return the same pot to medium-high heat. Melt butter until it becomes frothy and golden, creating a rich base for the sauce.
3. Sprinkle flour into the melted butter, whisking constantly to create a smooth, pale roux. Continue stirring for 2-3 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
4. Gradually pour milk into the roux, whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Simmer the mixture until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Remove sauce from heat. Incorporate salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to build layers of flavor. Stir in pepper jack and cheddar cheeses until completely melted and silky.
6. Fold the drained pasta into the creamy cheese sauce, ensuring each pasta piece is generously coated. Allow to sit for 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors before serving hot.

Notes

• Spice Up the Heat Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the spice level, perfect for those who love a kick or prefer a milder flavor.
• Cheese Flexibility Experiment with different pepper jack cheese brands or mix in other melty cheeses like cheddar or monterey jack for unique flavor profiles.
• Creamy Consistency Whisk the roux and milk slowly to prevent lumps, ensuring a silky smooth sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
• Dietary Adaptations Use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with cornstarch for a gluten-free version, or swap dairy milk with plant-based alternatives for a vegan-friendly dish.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 50mg