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Chipotle Mac-and-Cheese

This creamy Chipotle Mac and Cheese is an easy 30-minute comfort food dinner with smoky chipotle flavor, melty cheese, and juicy cherry tomatoes. Perfect for Meatless Monday
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Ingredients

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni regular, whole wheat, or gluten-free
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ¼ cup finely diced onion
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • ½ cup unsweetened almond milk or milk of choice
  • 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt optional, for extra creaminess and protein
  • ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes

Crispy Topping

  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

Instructions

Toast the Breadcrumbs

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • In a small bowl, combine the panko, Parmesan, and olive oil.
  • Spread onto a baking sheet and bake for 4 to 5 minutes, or until lightly golden. Set aside.

Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the macaroni until al dente according to the package directions.
  • Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.

Make the Sauce

  • Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the onion and cook for 3 minutes, until softened.
  • Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  • Add the almond milk, chipotle peppers, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika.
  • Simmer for 2 minutes.
  • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Greek yogurt until smooth.
  • If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Finish

  • Add the cooked macaroni and cherry tomatoes.
  • Toss until evenly coated.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle generously with the toasted panko mixture.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

Make It Higher in Protein
  • For an extra protein boost, blend ½ cup cottage cheese until smooth and stir it into the sauce before adding the shredded cheese.
 
Adjust the Heat
  • Use less chipotle for a milder version or add an extra spoonful for a smokier, spicier kick.
 
Storage
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.