Colorado Charred Green Chili Mac and Cheese

Introduction

Experience a smoky, cheesy delight with this Charred Green Chili Mac and Cheese, grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. By roasting fresh green chilies and infusing them into creamy cheddar sauce, this dish brings a bold, Colorado-inspired twist to classic mac and cheese. Grilled entirely on the flat-top cook surface, this ultimate comfort food gets a deep, rich flavor without ever touching an oven.

Ingredients

• 12 oz elbow macaroni
• 4 fresh green chilies
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the flame to burn for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop reaches optimal heat.

Step 2: Roast the green chilies

1. Place the fresh green chilies on the flat cooktop near the center for maximum heat.
2. Rotate them occasionally until their skin is charred and blistered evenly.
3. Once fully roasted, place them in a covered dish for 5 minutes to steam. Then peel the skin, remove seeds, and chop finely.

Step 3: Cook the macaroni

1. Spread the dried macaroni evenly over the flat cooktop near the cooler edge.
2. Gradually pour hot water over the macaroni, stirring gently as it absorbs.
3. Continue this process until the macaroni is al dente.

Step 4: Prepare the cheese sauce

1. Move the macaroni to a cooler zone of the cooktop and melt the butter in the center.
2. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly.
3. Add the shredded cheeses, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir until the cheese melts completely into a creamy sauce.
5. Mix in the chopped roasted green chilies.

Step 5: Assemble and grill the mac and cheese

1. Combine the macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
2. Flatten the mixture slightly and top with breadcrumbs.
3. Let it crisp up slightly on the griddle for a crunchy topping.

Tips

• For smoky heat, use hatch green chilies instead of regular green chilies.
• If the mac and cheese thickens too much, add a splash of milk and reheat gently.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
2. Bacon Lover: Crumble crispy bacon into the mac and cheese before serving.
3. Southwestern Style: Mix in black beans and corn for a Tex-Mex twist.
4. Three-Cheese Blend: Incorporate gouda, mozzarella, and sharp cheddar.
5. Truffle Elegance: Drizzle with truffle oil for a refined, gourmet touch.

Conclusion

This Charred Green Chili Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of smoky, creamy, and spicy, making it a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors. Cooking entirely on the Arteflame grill ensures a delicious, evenly cooked dish with a rich, fire-kissed taste. Enjoy a truly unique Colorado-style experience with this ultimate comfort food.

Best pairings

• Grilled steak for a hearty meal
• Smoky BBQ chicken for complementary flavors
• Fresh coleslaw for a crisp contrast
• A cold craft beer for the perfect Colorado pairing