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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Mac and Cheese Bites

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These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño mac and cheese bites are a perfect party snack combining creamy, spicy mac and cheese with a crunchy bacon shell. Easy to make and crowd-pleasing, they are ideal for game days and casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 8 oz)
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (about 4 oz)
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk, room temperature
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 ½ tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt, to taste
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 2 medium jalapeños, seeds removed and finely diced
  • 12 slices thick-cut bacon

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter. Whisk in 2 ½ tbsp all-purpose flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  3. Gradually add 1 ½ cups whole milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
  4. Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in 2 cups sharp cheddar and 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. Season with 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp garlic powder. Fold in the cooked macaroni and diced jalapeños. Adjust seasoning or jalapeño heat as desired.
  6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin. Line each cup with a slice of thick-cut bacon, wrapping it around the sides to form a cup.
  7. Spoon the mac and cheese mixture into each bacon-lined muffin cup, filling nearly to the top. Place the muffin tin on a baking sheet to catch drippings.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbly and golden.
  9. Let the bites cool in the pan for 5 minutes before carefully removing with a small spatula or butter knife.
  10. Garnish with chopped chives or a sprinkle of smoked paprika if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for gluten-free option. Substitute dairy with plant-based alternatives for dairy-free. Adjust jalapeño heat by removing seeds or using milder peppers. For crispier bacon, broil last 2-3 minutes watching closely. Avoid microwaving leftovers to keep bacon crispy. Air fryer method: cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes for a quick, crispy finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon, jalapeño, mac and cheese, party snacks, appetizer, crispy, cheesy, spicy

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/crispy-bacon-wrapped-jalape-n-o-mac-and-cheese-bites-easy-recipe-for-party-snacks/