Description

Jalapeño Popper Macaroni Salad is the ultimate side dish to spice up your gatherings! This vibrant recipe combines creamy cheeses, roasted jalapeños, and crispy turkey bacon for a delightful twist on traditional macaroni salad. With bold flavors and a satisfying texture, it’s perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or as a light meal. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Treat your guests to this irresistible dish that showcases a fun blend of creamy and crunchy elements, making it a crowd favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

5 large jalapeños
8 ounces dry elbow macaroni
2 ounces cream cheese
6–8 ounces turkey bacon
4 ounces mild cheddar cheese
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve jalapeños lengthwise; remove tops, seeds, and veins. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast cut-side down on a baking sheet for about 15 minutes until tender.
Cook elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, chopped roasted jalapeños, cream cheese cubes, chopped turkey bacon, and cheddar cubes.
In another bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground pepper until smooth; pour over the macaroni mixture and gently stir to coat evenly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Side dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 380
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 45mg