Jalapeño Popper Macaroni Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- For the Salad:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4-6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2-3 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
- Stir in the lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the dressing and mix until the pasta is well coated.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped jalapeños, red onion, bell pepper, and cilantro (if using).
- Mix everything together until evenly combined.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled, garnished with extra crumbled bacon, chopped jalapeños, or cilantro if desired.
Enjoy your creamy, spicy, and flavorful Jalapeño Popper Macaroni Salad!