This Jalapeno Popper Stovetop Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy, and spicy twist on classic comfort food. Combining smoky bacon, fresh jalapenos, and gooey pepper jack cheese, this dish packs bold flavors in every bite. Cooking the pasta directly in chicken broth infuses it with extra flavor while creating a velvety base for the cheese sauce. Perfect as a main course or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe delivers all the indulgent goodness of jalapeno poppers in a simple, one-pan meal.
For added customization, you can easily make this mac and cheese your own. Prefer it milder? Use fewer jalapenos or swap in a milder cheese. Looking for more protein? Add diced chicken or even pulled pork for a hearty dinner option. This recipe is quick to make and ideal for weeknights, with the stovetop method saving time without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re hosting a game-day party or craving a spicy comfort food fix, this dish will quickly become a favorite.
Jalapeno Popper Stovetop Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon chopped
- 2 jalapenos deseeded, destemmed, and chopped
- 1 lb pasta of choice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 12 oz evaporated milk
- 1 Tbsp Bailee’s All-Purpose Kitchen Seasoning or ½ tsp each: salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika
- 8 oz freshly grated pepper jack cheese
Instructions
- In a large pan with tall sides, cook the bacon over medium heat.
- When bacon is halfway cooked, add the chopped jalapenos. Continue cooking until the bacon is browned and crispy.
- Remove bacon and jalapenos with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Remove all but 1 tablespoon of bacon grease from the pan.
- Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the pasta and chicken broth to the pan.
- Cook the pasta in the broth for 10-12 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente.
- Add the evaporated milk and seasoning. Stir well and allow the milk to warm through.
- Stir in the pepper jack cheese, followed by ¾ of the bacon and jalapeno mixture.
- Mix thoroughly, cover with a lid, and remove from heat. Let sit for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to absorb and become creamy.
- If the pasta isn’t creamy enough, stir in more cheese.
- Top with the remaining bacon and jalapenos. Serve as a delicious main dish or appetizer.
- Optional: For a heartier main dish, cook and chop chicken breasts beforehand and mix them in before serving.