Indulge in a dish that redefines classic comfort food: this creamy, smoky, and subtly spicy mac and cheese offers layers of bold flavor in every bite. A blend of sharp cheddar, nutty Parmesan, and smooth gouda creates an irresistibly rich sauce, while a touch of smoked paprika deepens the aroma. The secret element? A kick of Cloud23 Hot Habanero Hot Sauce that adds a zesty heat, perfectly balancing the creamy textures. This recipe isn’t just mac and cheese—it’s a culinary experience that combines tradition with a contemporary twist, elevating a beloved favorite into something extraordinary.
Hot Habanero Mac & Cheese
Dana Plucinski aka @baydish
4-6
10 minutes
20-25 minutes
American
Indulge in a dish that redefines classic comfort food: this creamy, smoky, and subtly spicy mac and cheese offers layers of bold flavor in every bite. A blend of sharp cheddar, nutty Parmesan, and smooth gouda creates an irresistibly rich sauce, while a touch of smoked paprika deepens the aroma. The secret element? A kick of Cloud23 Hot Habanero Hot Sauce that adds a zesty heat, perfectly balancing the creamy textures. This recipe isn’t just mac and cheese—it’s a culinary experience that combines tradition with a contemporary twist, elevating a beloved favorite into something extraordinary.
Ingredients
1 12oz box of pasta, cooked according to package instructions
3 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp flour
1 ½ cups whole milk
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
¾ cup parmesan cheese, shredded
¾ cup gouda cheese, shredded
2-3 tbsp Cloud23 Hot Habanero Hot Sauce, plus more for topping
Directions
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Set aside 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
Add the butter and olive oil to a large sauté pan over medium heat. When melted, add the garlic, and cook for a minute or so until fragrant but not burnt.
Add the flour and whisk to prevent lumps from forming, making a roux. Cook the roux for about one minute until slightly golden. Drizzle in the milk, whisking constantly. Add the smoked paprika and salt and pepper, continuing to whisk.
Let the mixture thicken, then add the three shredded cheeses, stirring as they melt. If you desire a thinner consistency, add in the starchy pasta water bit by bit, stirring continuously, until desired texture is achieved. Mix in the Cloud23 Hot Habanero Hot Sauce and taste. If you want a spicier mac and cheese, add more hot sauce until desired heat level is reached.
Add in the pasta and stir until evenly coated. Plate your pasta, adding more pepper and a drizzle of hot sauce if desired. Enjoy!
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