Description
Kimchi Chili Mac and Cheese is a bold fusion of classic creamy, cheesy macaroni with the spicy, tangy kick of fermented kimchi and chili heat. This quick and easy comfort food revamp delivers a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for any weeknight craving, combining rich cheese sauce with the unique depth of kimchi and customizable spice levels.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or any small pasta
Kimchi and Aromatics
- 1 cup finely chopped kimchi
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp chili powder or 1-2 fresh chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
Seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while preparing the sauce.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle flour into the melted butter and aromatics. Stir continuously for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and form the base of a creamy sauce.
- Add Milk and Build Sauce: Slowly whisk in milk to create a smooth mixture. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Stir in Cheese and Chili: Reduce heat to low and gradually add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and blended. Add chili powder or fresh chilies to infuse heat evenly.
- Incorporate Kimchi and Pasta: Fold in finely chopped kimchi to distribute its tangy, spicy flavor throughout the sauce. Stir in the cooked pasta, ensuring every piece is coated with cheesy, spicy goodness.
- Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra chili powder as desired. Serve hot and enjoy your vibrant, comforting dish!
Notes
- Use fresh, well-fermented kimchi for the best tang and spice without overpowering the dish.
- Choose sharp cheddar cheese to cut through the richness and complement the kimchi’s flavor.
- Do not overcook pasta; cook only until al dente to avoid mushy texture after mixing.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of cream or cream cheese at the end.
- Adjust the spice gradually, starting with less chili and adding more to reach your preferred heat level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg