Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food fusion with Jalapeño Popper Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs! These bite-sized delights combine the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese with the bold flavors of jalapeño poppers and the smoky crunch of bacon. Whether you’re hosting a party, game day gathering, or simply craving an indulgent snack, these bombs will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these irresistible Jalapeño Popper Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup milk
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 package refrigerated biscuit dough
- Cooking spray
The combination of sharp cheddar, creamy cream cheese, and the smoky, spicy notes from the bacon and jalapeños create a flavor explosion that will have your guests begging for more. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheese blends or spice levels to suit your personal preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Macaroni
Begin by boiling the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain the macaroni and set it aside to cool slightly.
Mix the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, milk, crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until the ingredients are well-incorporated and the mixture is creamy and smooth.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s nice and hot for baking the Jalapeño Popper Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs.
Prepare the Biscuit Dough
On a lightly floured surface, flatten each biscuit from the refrigerated dough into a circle about ¼ inch thick. This will create the perfect vessel for your cheesy, bacony goodness.
Fill and Shape the Bombs
Spoon a generous amount of the mac and cheese mixture into the center of each biscuit circle. Fold the edges of the biscuit over the filling and pinch to seal, creating a delightful little bomb-shaped treat.
Arrange and Spray
Place the filled and sealed Jalapeño Popper Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help them achieve a beautiful golden-brown color.
Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bombs are golden brown and irresistibly crispy on the outside.
Serve and Enjoy
Allow the Jalapeño Popper Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs to cool slightly before serving. These cheesy, spicy, and indulgent treats are best enjoyed hot, straight out of the oven. Brace yourself for the ooey-gooey, flavor-packed bite that will have your guests reaching for more!
Tips for Perfect Jalapeño Popper Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs
To ensure your Jalapeño Popper Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs turn out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, use fewer jalapeños or opt for pickled jalapeños instead of fresh. For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
- Achieve Creamy Perfection: Be sure to mix the cheese mixture thoroughly and don’t be afraid to add a bit more milk if the consistency seems too thick. The goal is a smooth, creamy filling that oozes out of the biscuit bombs.
- Prevent Leakage: Carefully seal the biscuit dough around the filling to ensure no cheese mixture escapes during baking. This will result in perfectly shaped, mess-free bombs.
- Reheat with Care: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the bombs on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Jalapeño Popper Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish. Serve them at your next game day gathering, party, or potluck, and watch them disappear in no time. They pair beautifully with a variety of dips, such as ranch, spicy aioli, or even a creamy cheese sauce for the ultimate dipping experience.
For a refreshing contrast, consider serving the bombs alongside a crisp, leafy salad or a tangy coleslaw. And to complete the flavor profile, pair them with an ice-cold beer, a refreshing lemonade, or a bold red wine.
Variations and Creative Twists
The beauty of Jalapeño Popper Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs is that they lend themselves to endless variations and creative twists. Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary adventures:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the bacon for sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for a meatless option.
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: Experiment with different cheese blends, such as a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan, or even try adding a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese.
- International Flair: Incorporate global flavors by adding taco seasoning for a Mexican-inspired twist or drizzling the bombs with a spicy buffalo sauce for a taste of the American South.
The possibilities are endless, so feel free to let your creativity shine and put your own unique spin on these irresistible Jalapeño Popper Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need to make Jalapeño Popper Mac & Cheese Bombs?
To make Jalapeño Popper Mac & Cheese Bombs, you will need the following ingredients: elbow macaroni, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, jalapeños (fresh or pickled), breadcrumbs (for coating), eggs (for binding), and seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. You’ll also need cooking oil for frying or baking.
How do I prepare the mac and cheese filling for the bombs?
To prepare the mac and cheese filling, first cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. In a separate bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeños, and your choice of seasonings. Stir until the mixture is well-combined and creamy. Chill the filling for a bit to make it easier to handle when forming the bombs.
Can I bake Jalapeño Popper Mac & Cheese Bombs instead of frying them?
Yes, you can definitely bake Jalapeño Popper Mac & Cheese Bombs for a healthier alternative to frying. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), coat the bombs in breadcrumbs, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
How can I store leftovers of Jalapeño Popper Mac & Cheese Bombs?
To store leftovers, allow the Jalapeño Popper Mac & Cheese Bombs to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Creamy Butterscotch Cheesecake
- Creamy Garlic Sauce Steak
- Better Than Anything Bars
- Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars
Conclusion
Jalapeño Popper Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs are the ultimate comfort food mash-up that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. With their irresistible combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and bold, spicy flavors, these bombs are sure to be the hit of any gathering. So gather your ingredients, dive into the step-by-step instructions, and get ready to experience the ultimate in indulgent snacking. Bon appétit!
Print
Jalapeño Popper Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 bombs 1x
Description
Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food fusion with Jalapeño Popper Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs! These bite-sized delights combine the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese with the bold flavors of jalapeño poppers and the smoky crunch of bacon. Perfect for parties or game day gatherings, they will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup milk
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 package refrigerated biscuit dough
- Cooking spray
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Begin by boiling the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain the macaroni and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, milk, crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until the ingredients are well-incorporated and the mixture is creamy and smooth.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s nice and hot for baking the Jalapeño Popper Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs.
Step 4: Prepare the Biscuit Dough
On a lightly floured surface, flatten each biscuit from the refrigerated dough into a circle about ¼ inch thick.
Step 5: Fill and Shape the Bombs
Spoon a generous amount of the mac and cheese mixture into the center of each biscuit circle. Fold the edges of the biscuit over the filling and pinch to seal, creating a delightful little bomb-shaped treat.
Step 6: Arrange and Spray
Place the filled and sealed Jalapeño Popper Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help them achieve a beautiful golden-brown color.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bombs are golden brown and irresistibly crispy on the outside.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the Jalapeño Popper Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy hot for the best ooey-gooey experience!
Notes
- Adjust the Spice Level: Use fewer jalapeños or opt for pickled jalapeños for a milder flavor. For extra spice, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Achieve Creamy Perfection: Mix thoroughly and add more milk if needed for a smooth filling.
- Prevent Leakage: Seal the biscuit dough carefully to avoid any filling escaping during baking.
- Reheat with Care: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bomb
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg