Queso Mac And Cheese Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 ounces elbow macaroni (or cavatappi for more sauce cling)
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk, warm
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded monterrey jack cheese
• 1 cup queso dip, store-bought or homemade
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Jalapeño slices (optional)
• Fresh cilantro (optional, chopped for garnish)