Photo: Jalapeno Popper Orzo Mac-n-Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
Mac-n-Cheese:
- Kosher salt
- 1 pound orzo
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) butter
- 6 jalapeno peppers; 4 seeded and finely chopped, 2 sliced with seeds
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- Freshly ground pepper
- 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 2 cups panko
- 2 Fresno chile peppers, sliced
Guac Salad:
- 5 medium heirloom tomatoes, cut into thin wedges
- 2 almost-ripe avocados, pitted, peeled and sliced
- 1 jalapeno pepper, finely chopped
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- EVOO, for drizzling
- Juice of 2 limes
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, coarsely chopped
Directions
For the mac-n-cheese: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt the water and cook the orzo until al dente, about 6 minutes; drain.
Meanwhile, heat 4 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped jalapenos, the garlic and onions and cook until the jalapenos and onions are soft, 5 minutes. Add the flour and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add the milk and stir until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper. Add the Cheddar and cream cheese and stir until melted.
Combine the orzo with the sauce and transfer to a casserole dish.
Melt the remaining 4 tablespoons butter and toss with the panko to coat. Sprinkle over the casserole and top with the sliced jalapenos and Fresno chiles.
For the guac salad: Gently toss the tomatoes, avocados, jalapenos and onions on a serving platter. Drizzle with EVOO and lime juice, season with salt and pepper and top with the cilantro.
Divide the orzo mac-n-cheese among plates and serve with the guac salad.
Cook's Note: The orzo casserole (without the breadcrumb topping) can be covered and refrigerated for a make-ahead meal. Reheat in a moderate oven, and make the guac salad, before serving.
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By Mjbrownjr
San Diego
on October 15, 2012
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I modified the recipe adding the risotto to the butter garlic, onion and pepper. I then gradually added chicken broth one cup at a time and waiting for the liquid to be absorbed before adding the next cup. I used four cups chicken broth and one cup white wine. I added the cheese and allowed it to melt. I turned the risotto into a casserole and baked for ten minutes at 350. I set the oven to broil and browned the panko. It was great!
By John Galt 2
on October 15, 2012
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I make something similar but also add about 1/2 pound cooked bacon cut into 1 inch wide pieces and stir into the mac mixture.
By eltonboy9_12688495
Pittsburgh, 78
on August 06, 2012
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Looking for something a little different than just regular Mac n cheese-this fit the bill. Very easy to make and finishes with a nice zing!
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