Family-Style Jalapeño Popper Mac & Cheese

Ingredients

 (serves 6–8)

• 4 cups cooked elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 3–4 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced (more if you like heat)
• 1 tsp P&L Steak Rub
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• Optional topping: ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: 375°F
2. Mix the Mac & Cheese:
   
• In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar, cream cheese, diced jalapeños, and P&L Steak Rub.
• Mix until smooth and evenly combined.
  
3. Transfer to Baking Dish:
   
• Grease a 9x13-inch casserole pan.
• Spread mac & cheese mixture evenly.
  
4. Add Topping:
   
• Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter (and optional bacon).
• Sprinkle evenly over the top.
  
5. Bake:
   
• 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
  
6. Serve:
   
• Let cool 5 minutes before serving family-style. Perfect as a side for pulled pork, ribs, or grilled chicken.
  

Pro Tip:

For an extra flavor kick, drizzle Fat Boy BBQ Appalachian Red lightly over the top just before serving ties it to your BBQ mains and brings a sweet & tangy finish.