Savor The Spice: Pepper Jack Macaroni & Cheese (Creamy Baked Mac)

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni or cavatappi
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt, for the pasta water
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for coating the pasta
• 3 tablespoons (42 g) unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups (600 ml) whole milk, warmed if possible
• 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, cut into cubes
• 8 oz (225 g) pepper jack cheese, freshly shredded
• 4 oz (115 g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 3/4 cup (45 g) panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons chopped pickled jalapeños, patted dry
• 1/2 cup (55 g) shredded pepper jack cheese