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Rainforest Cafe Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe

Rainforest Cafe Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe

Welcome to the Rainforest Cafe Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe. Rainforest Cafe Creole Mac and Cheese is a bold, cheesy pasta dish inspired by Cajun flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 540

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni cooked
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup diced bell peppers mixed colors
  • 1 cup cooked chicken or shrimp optional
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions for garnish

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Cooking spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Skillet
  • Serving dish

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  1. Boil the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
    Rainforest Cafe Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 2: Sauté the Peppers
  1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté diced bell peppers until softened. Remove and keep aside.
    Rainforest Cafe Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 3: Make the Roux
  1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk constantly while adding flour to create a smooth paste (roux). Cook for about 1 minute.
    Rainforest Cafe Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
  1. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking until the mixture thickens. After that, mix in the pepper jack and cheddar cheeses until they are smooth and melted.
    Rainforest Cafe Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 5: Add Seasoning and Veggies
  1. Stir in Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the sautéed peppers and cooked protein (if using).
    Rainforest Cafe Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
  1. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well to coat every piece.
    Rainforest Cafe Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 7: Serve Hot
  1. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm. Savor your handmade mac & cheese from Rainforest Cafe Creole!
    Rainforest Cafe Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture.