Spicy Mac and Cheese

How to Create Zesty Mac and Cheese – Step-by-Step Directions

Comprehensive, easy-to-follow directions and measurements can be found in the recipe card located at the end of this article.

Step One

Prepare the pasta as per the instructions on the package, drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside. Rinsing will help prevent the pasta from clumping together.

Step Two

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees C and get an oven-safe dish ready. It doesn’t have to be large.

Step Three

Combine the butter and three tablespoons of hot sauce in a sizable saucepan and melt them over medium heat on the stove. This process won’t take long.

Step Four

Lower the heat and incorporate the flour.

Step Five

Cook for 2 minutes, whisking continuously. It will combine very rapidly.

Step Six

Gradually add the milk in small portions to avoid clumps, whisking persistently.

Step Seven

Raise the temperature and bring to a simmer, whisking frequently.

Step Eight

Simmer for 3 minutes, whisking regularly and lowering the temperature if needed for a gentle simmer.

Step Nine

After the sauce has thickened, take it off the heat.

Step Ten

Mix in the salt, pepper, and additional hot sauce if you like. I recommend tasting a small amount of the blended sauce before adding more.

Step Eleven

Incorporate the cheeses, saving a handful for topping. I set aside some from both types of cheese, but you may opt for just one if you wish.

Step Twelve

Mix thoroughly. It will be quite gooey and stretchy.

Step Thirteen

Add the pasta and fold until evenly dispersed. This can be somewhat labor-intensive. Make sure you dig deep down to the bottom.

Step Fourteen

Transfer into the oven-safe dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top along with a drizzle of hot sauce.

Step Fifteen

Bake for 20 minutes until it turns golden brown and is bubbling.

Step Sixteen

Carefully take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.