Ultimate Spicy Tomato Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1

Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for that perfect cooking temperature.

Step 2

Get creative in a medium saucepan by combining a delightful mix of diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with jalapeno for a kick, luscious tomato bisque, and a hint of green chilies. Let the flavors mingle as you bring them to a gentle boil, giving an occasional stir. Once bubbling, lower the heat and allow it to simmer away happily.

Step 3

Meanwhile, in a separate large pot, bring some salted water to a lively boil. Add in your pasta shells and let them dance in the water, stirring now and then, until they are just tender yet delightfully firm to the bite, usually around 8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the shells and lovingly place them at the bottom of your favorite casserole dish.

Step 4

Now, it's time to bring everything together in a beautiful culinary symphony. Pour the aromatic tomato sauce over the pasta shells, and sprinkle in a lovely mixture of 1/2 Colby-Monterey Jack cheese and 1/2 pepper Jack cheese. Then, top this melty goodness with the remaining halves of both cheeses for an extra cheesy finish.

Step 5

Pop your creation into the preheated oven and let it bake until the cheese on top begins to turn a delicious golden brown, usually around 30 minutes. Once ready, take it out, allowing it to cool and settle for about 15 minutes before serving, letting the flavors intensify and mingle further. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!