Mouthwatering Kimchi Mac and Cheese with a Spicy Twist
If you’re in search of a unique comfort food experience, look no further than Mouthwatering Kimchi Mac and Cheese with a Spicy Twist. This delightful dish combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional mac and cheese with the bold, tangy flavors of kimchi and spicy gochujang. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. With its rich texture and unexpected kick, it promises to impress both kids and adults alike. Plus, its flexibility allows you to adapt it to your taste preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean-inspired
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb dried elbow pasta
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¾ cup kimchi juice
- 1 cup kimchi, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon gochujang
- 2 teaspoons gochugaru
- 3 ½ cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, grated
- 2 stalks green onion, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the elbow pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in flour until smooth to create a roux.
- Gradually add whole milk while whisking continuously until thickened. Stir in salt, white pepper, gochujang, gochugaru, kimchi juice, and chopped kimchi.
- Mix in sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted.
- Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese mixture until well coated.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with additional cheddar and mozzarella. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 715mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 68mg