Salsa Mac & Cheese Cups
If you're a fan of Mac & Cheese and crave a little extra zing in your comfort food, you're in for a treat! Our Salsa Mac & Cheese Cups are super simple to make and incredibly delicious. By infusing your creamy Mac & Cheese with the bold flavors of OC Salsa Rica Salsa, you'll elevate this classic dish to a whole new level of tastiness. Plus, a quick broil at the end creates a crispy top that's simply irresistible. Get ready to satisfy your cheesy, spicy cravings!
INGREDIENTS:
2 cups elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta shape
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup OC Salsa Rica Salsa (Mild, Hot, Organic or Taquera, depending on your preference)
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray
PREPARATION:
Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Continue to cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the roux becomes lightly golden.
Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while continuously whisking the roux. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, usually 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted, creating a creamy cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Incorporate the Salsa: Now comes the exciting part! Stir in 1/4 cup of OC Salsa Rica Salsa (Mild, Hot, or Taquera, depending on your spice preference) into the cheese sauce. The salsa will infuse the sauce with a delightful kick and bold flavor.
Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the salsa-infused cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is well coated with the creamy, spicy goodness.
Assemble the Cups: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray. Spoon the Salsa Mac & Cheese mixture into each muffin cup, filling them to the top.
Add More Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of each Mac & Cheese cup for an extra cheesy finish.
Broil for Crispy Tops: Place the muffin tin under the broiler for a few minutes until the tops turn golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the Salsa Mac & Cheese Cups from the muffin tin and let them cool for a minute or two. Then, enjoy the perfect bite-sized, spicy, and cheesy delights!
Salsa Mac & Cheese Cups are the ultimate fusion of comfort and flavor. By adding OC Salsa Rica Salsa to your classic Mac & Cheese, you'll take your taste buds on a spicy adventure. The crispy tops provide the perfect contrast to the creamy, zesty filling. These delightful little cups are perfect for parties, snacks, or any time you want to indulge in a cheesy, spicy treat. Get ready to savor every bite of this irresistible comfort food with a twist!