Creamy Hatch Green Chile Mac & Cheese – Comfort with a Kick!

If you’re craving something rich, cozy, and full of Southwestern flavor, Creamy Hatch Green Chile Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy twist. This isn’t your average mac – it’s bold, creamy, cheesy, and layered with the roasted heat of seasonal Hatch green chiles. Whether you’re serving it as a main course, a side for barbecue, or a potluck crowd-pleaser, this recipe delivers flavor and comfort in every bite.

Made with real cheese, smoky Hatch chiles, and a silky béchamel base, this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and spicy. Let’s dive into why this cheesy masterpiece deserves a permanent place in your kitchen—especially during Hatch chile season (August–September)!

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🌶️ Why You’ll Love Hatch Green Chile Mac & Cheese

 A Flavorful Twist on Classic Comfort

• ✅ Creamy and gooey with a cheesy pull

• ✅ Roasted Hatch chiles add depth, heat & smoke

• ✅ Perfect for late summer and fall gatherings

• ✅ Easily doubled for family-style meals

• ✅ Vegetarian-friendly and kid-approved (if using mild chiles)

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🌿 What Are Hatch Green Chiles?

Hatch green chiles are a type of pepper grown in Hatch Valley, New Mexico, with a cult following thanks to their unique, smoky-earthy flavor and balanced heat. They’re harvested fresh in August and September, making them a seasonal staple in Southwestern kitchens.

Heat Level?
Ranges from mild to hot depending on the variety. You can adjust how many chiles to add depending on your spice preference.

Where to find them:

• Fresh (August–September): Farmers markets, grocery stores

• Canned: Year-round in most supermarkets

• Frozen or roasted: Specialty stores or online

🔥 Tip: Roasting Hatch chiles enhances their flavor and adds a touch of smokiness. Use fresh if available, but canned roasted Hatch chiles are a great shortcut too!

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🧀 Creamy Hatch Green Chile Mac & Cheese Ingredients

 Pasta

• 1 lb (16 oz) elbow macaroni (or cavatappi, shells, etc.)

• Salted water, for boiling

 Cheese Sauce (Béchamel-Based)

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 3 cups whole milk, warmed

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

 The Cheese

• 2 cups sharp cheddar, shredded

• 1 cup Monterey Jack, shredded

• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (adds extra creaminess)

• 1/2 cup Parmesan (for topping)

 Hatch Chiles

• 1 to 1½ cups roasted Hatch green chiles, chopped
  (Use more or less depending on heat level and taste)

 Optional Mix-Ins or Toppings

• Cooked bacon bits

• Crushed tortilla chips or panko for topping

• Green onions, cilantro, or jalapeños

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Creamy Hatch Green Chile Mac & Cheese

 Step 1 – Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until just al dente (it will cook more in the oven if baking). Drain and set aside.

 Step 2 – Make the Roux & Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Slowly whisk in the warm milk and cream, stirring until smooth and thickened (about 4–5 minutes). Add Dijon, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Lower the heat and stir in cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese until melted and silky.

 Step 3 – Add the Hatch Chiles

Fold in the chopped roasted Hatch green chiles. Taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed.

 Step 4 – Combine with Pasta

Stir the drained pasta into the sauce until fully coated. You can serve it as is for ultra-creamy stovetop mac or bake it with a crunchy topping.

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🔥 Optional: Bake for Golden Perfection

 For a Baked Version:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Transfer the mac & cheese mixture to a buttered 9×13″ baking dish.

3. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (and/or crushed tortilla chips or panko).

4. Bake for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

5. Broil the top for 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.

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🌮 What to Serve with Hatch Green Chile Mac & Cheese

This dish works as a standalone comfort meal or a bold side for:

• Grilled meats or ribs

• Pulled pork sandwiches

• Roasted vegetables

• Tex-Mex favorites like enchiladas, tacos, or fajitas

• Fried chicken or BBQ

Want to make it a full meal? Stir in cooked shredded chicken or chorizo before baking.

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🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips

 Leftovers:

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

• Reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk for best results.

 Can I freeze it?

Yes! Let it cool completely and freeze in portions. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently with added milk.

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🔄 Variations & Substitutions

🧠 Pro Tip: For a smoky kick, add a teaspoon of chipotle powder or a splash of chipotle hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

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🛒 Where to Find Hatch Green Chiles

Hatch green chiles are seasonal but highly sought-after. Here’s where to get them:

• Fresh (in season): Local farmer’s markets (especially in the Southwest), Whole Foods, Sprouts

• Canned or jarred: In the Mexican aisle of most grocery stores

• Online: From specialty retailers like Hatch Chile Store or Zia Hatch

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❓FAQs – Creamy Hatch Green Chile Mac & Cheese

 Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the mac & cheese, cover it tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5–10 minutes to the baking time if chilled.

 Is it very spicy?

That depends on your Hatch chiles! You can use mild, medium, or hot varieties. For extra spice, leave the seeds in or add jalapeños.

 Can I make it without baking?

Yes. The stovetop version is just as creamy and delicious. Simply cook pasta, make the cheese sauce, and combine—no oven required.

 Is it kid-friendly?

Yes, especially when using mild Hatch chiles. Kids tend to love the cheesy goodness with just a hint of green chile flavor.

 Can I use canned Hatch chiles?

Yes! Canned roasted Hatch green chiles are a convenient substitute and still deliver fantastic flavor. Use about 1 to 1½ cups.

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🧡 Why This Mac & Cheese Belongs in Your Rotation

From backyard cookouts to holiday dinners to cozy weeknights, this Creamy Hatch Green Chile Mac & Cheese is a crowd-pleaser that’s impossible to resist. It brings together the soul-warming richness of classic mac and cheese with a pop of late-summer spice that’s unforgettable.

Hatch green chiles add that signature roasted flavor and gentle heat that transforms a familiar dish into something extraordinary. It’s comfort food—elevated.

So next time you see Hatch chiles at the store or farmers market, grab a few and give this recipe a try. You’ll thank yourself with every cheesy, spicy bite!