Chipotle Mac and Cheese

Recipe View Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. (5 minutes)

Recipe View Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot, bring lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain well in a colander. (10 minutes)

Recipe View Prepare the Cheese Sauce Base: While the macaroni is cooking, heat the milk in a saucepan until it's hot but not boiling. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced onion, garlic, and chopped chipotle peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. (8 minutes)

Recipe View Create the Roux: Whisk in the all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, into the butter mixture. Cook, whisking constantly, for about 3 minutes to create a smooth roux. This will help thicken the sauce. (3 minutes)

Recipe View Develop the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the hot milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, into the roux mixture. Continue whisking until smooth. Stir in the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer (do not boil), whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes. (5 minutes)

Recipe View Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is thick and smooth. (5 minutes)

Recipe View Combine and Bake: Transfer the drained macaroni to the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and stir to combine thoroughly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. (3 minutes)

Recipe View Bake Covered: Bake the covered dish for 40 minutes, or until the mac and cheese is bubbling and the macaroni has absorbed some of the sauce. (40 minutes)

Recipe View Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. (15 minutes)

Recipe View Rest and Serve: Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly. (5 minutes)