Jalapeno Butternut Mac and Cheese
Jalapenos are the most popular chile peppers in the US. This is probably due to the availability and versatility of the chile. Jalapenos have a balanced combination of flavor and heat.
Ingredients:
1 tbsp butter
3 large jalapenos, stem and seeds removed and finely chopped
1½ tbsp whole wheat flour or all purpose
1 C milk
1 C butternut squash puree
½ tsp sea salt
10 oz aged cheddar cheese grated or thinly sliced, plus more for topping if desired
1 13 oz box whole grain macaroni
Instructions:
Cook pasta according to the instructions found on the box.
Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small pan. Add the finely chopped jalapenos and cook until as tender as desired, 2-3 minutes.
Add the flour and mix until completely combined. Cook for another minute before whisking in the milk. Bring up to a boil or until the milk has thickened. Stir in the butternut squash puree and bring back up to temperature.
Once the mixture is hot, turn the heat down to low and add the salt and cheese. Stir until completely melted then remove from the heat.
Stir in the macaroni and serve as is, or place in individual sized dishes(or one large dish) top with extra grated cheese and a sprinkle of chopped or sliced jalapenos for some extra heat and broil until golden. Enjoy!
From fooddoodles.com