Description
Discover the ultimate comfort food with Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, a creamy, sweet‑spicy casserole that blends tender chicken, smoky smoked beef, and elbow macaroni in a rich cheddar‑mozzarella sauce. This easy recipe features a honey‑infused cheese blend, black pepper heat, and a splash of grape juice for subtle tang, creating a balanced flavor profile perfect for busy weeknight meals. Ready in under an hour, it serves four and offers a satisfying, restaurant‑style experience at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup smoked beef, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grape juice
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and grape juice until smooth. Cook until thickened.
- Stir in the shredded cheese, honey, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until cheese is melted.
- Add the cooked macaroni, diced chicken, and smoked beef to the cheese sauce. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until bubbly.
Notes
- For a spicier version
- add a pinch of cayenne. For extra crunch
- top with panko breadcrumbs before baking. Nutrition is approximate.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
Keywords: Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, easy chicken mac and cheese, sweet and spicy mac and cheese, quick dinner recipes, family comfort food, chicken and beef casserole, creamy pasta bake, honey glazed mac and cheese, 4 serving dinner ideas, how to make mac and cheese