Jalapeno Popper Macaroni Salad
Whether you’re a fan of jalapeño poppers or simply looking for a unique twist on a classic pasta salad, this side dish promises a flavor-packed experience with every bite!
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
ROASTED JALAPENO PEPPERS:
4-5 lg. jalapeños seeds and membranes removed
Olive oil for drizzling
Salt and pepper
PASTA:
1 (16 oz.) box elbow macaroni
4 oz. cream cheese cut into cubed
DRESSING:
2/3 c. mayonnaise
1/2 c. sour cream
1 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. onion powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
SALAD:
2 green onions thinly sliced
8 strips smoked bacon cooked crisp and chopped
8 oz. Colby Jack or cheddar cheese cut into small cubes or shredded
Instructions:
ROASTED JALAPENO PEPPERS: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil.
Cut the ends off the jalapeños and slice down the center lengthwise. Using a spoon scrape out the seeds and membranes and discard. Place the jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet and lightly drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Roast for 10 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet. Once cooled, chop the jalapenos.
PASTA: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to the package directions; drain well. Place the cream cheese in a large bowl. Pour the drained hot pasta over the cream cheese; stir to combine. The hot pasta will melt the cream cheese. Allow to cool for a bit.
DRESSING: Meanwhile make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
SALAD: Once the pasta has cooled top with chopped roasted jalapeños, green onions, bacon, and dressing reserving 1/4 cup of the dressing for later; stir to combine. Cover the salad and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Just before serving add the cheddar cheese and reserved dressing to the salad, stir to combine. Pour the salad into a serving bowl and garnish with extra sliced green onions, bacon, and sliced jalapeños if desired. Enjoy!
If the salad seems a little thick after chilling add a splash of milk or sour cream until you reach the desired consistency.
Notes:
If the pasta salad seems dry add a splash of milk; stir to combine