Creamy, cheesy, spicy, and a little wild—this baked mac takes boxed Jalapeño Cheetos Mac & Cheese and transforms it into a loaded jalapeño popper-style casserole. We’re talking layers of cream cheese, sautéed peppers, onions, and a golden pepper jack–panko crust. It’s party food, comfort food, and childhood nostalgia all baked into one irresistible bite.
Ingredients
Base:
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1 box Jalapeño Cheetos Mac & Cheese, prepared to box directions
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1 tbsp butter or oil (for sautéing)
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1/2 small yellow onion, diced
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1–2 fresh jalapeños or bell peppers, diced (adjust to heat preference)
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1 clove garlic, minced
Creamy Cheese Sauce:
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4 oz cream cheese
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1/4 cup milk (or more, as needed for smooth texture)
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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Pinch of salt
Topping:
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1/2 cup shredded pepper jack
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1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
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1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
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Optional: 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or green onion for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a small baking dish (about 8x8").
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Cook the Cheetos mac according to the package. Set aside.
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In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and peppers in butter or oil until softened and fragrant—about 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
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Reduce heat to low and stir in cream cheese, milk, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir until it’s smooth and creamy—add more milk if needed to thin slightly.
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Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked mac and cheese, stirring in the sautéed veggies as well. Pour into your prepared baking dish.
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Top with shredded pepper jack. In a small bowl, mix panko with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle evenly on top.
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Bake uncovered for 18–20 minutes, or until hot and bubbling, with the top golden brown.
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Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crunch. Let cool slightly before serving, then garnish with chopped herbs if desired.
Pro Tips & Notes
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For extra heat, leave some jalapeño seeds in or mix in a dash of cayenne with the cheese sauce.
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For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the sauce.
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Want to go wild? Crumble bacon over the top before baking—it’ll taste like a jalapeño popper explosion, and/or roughly crushed Jalapeno/Flamin' Hot Cheetos!!!
Nutritional Estimate (per serving, serves 4):
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Calories: ~420
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Protein: 13g
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Carbs: 38g
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Fat: 24g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sodium: ~780mg
These values will vary based on your final cheese and pepper choices.
This isn’t just boxed mac with extras—it’s a full-on flavor bomb that borrows the best of bar food and weeknight comfort. By layering heat, creaminess, and a golden topping, you’ve got something snacky and shareable that still feels homemade. Whether you’re trying to impress at a potluck or just want to take your late-night mac to the next level, this Jalapeño Popper Mac delivers.
