Mouthwatering Mexican Mac n Cheese with Chorizo & Crunchy Chips

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s something delightfully comforting about the rich, gooey indulgence of mac n cheese, and when you blend that with the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine, magic happens in your kitchen. Picture this: creamy cheese melded with spicy chorizo, topped with crunchy corn chips, all baked to golden perfection. This Cheesy Mexican Mac n Cheese is not just a dish; it s an experience that awakens your taste buds and warms your heart, making it ideal for a quick, satisfying family dinner or a gathering with friends.

I first whipped up this recipe on a busy weeknight when the idea of another bland takeout felt unbearable. The combination of pantry staples and a few bold ingredients turned a regular mac and cheese into a fiesta on a plate. In under an hour, you ll create a creamy, savory delight bursting with flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Why settle for fast food when homemade comfort can be this delicious and easy? Get ready to dive into a crowd-pleaser that redefines what mac n cheese can be!

Why is Mexican Mac n Cheese a Must-Try?

Comforting Flavors: This Mexican Mac n Cheese brings a delightful twist to the classic favorite with its rich, creamy texture paired with spicy chorizo.
Easy to Prepare: With only a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you ll whip this up in under an hour perfect for any weeknight!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Bring smiles to the table as this dish strikes a harmonious balance between comfort food and exciting flavors, sure to satisfy all ages.
Customizable Options: Whether you re a meat lover or vegetarian, you can effortlessly tweak it to your taste by swapping protein or adding veggies.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week this dish keeps well in the fridge and can be baked fresh right before serving!

Mexican Mac n Cheese Ingredients

For the Pasta
Macaroni A versatile base; choose elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta shape for the ideal texture.

For the Cooking
Vegetable Oil Essential for cooking chorizo; if you re health-conscious, olive oil makes a great substitute.
Chorizo This smoky delight adds protein and depth; swap with a meat alternative for a vegetarian version.

For the Cheese Sauce
Butter The foundation for a rich cheese sauce; margarine can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
Plain Flour Acts as a thickening agent; gluten-free flour is an excellent option for gluten-free versions.
Onion Powder Enhances flavor beautifully; fresh onion can be used instead for a different twist.
Garlic Powder Adds a layer of depth; switch to fresh minced garlic for an aromatic boost.
Full Cream Milk Creates a luscious sauce; almond milk or coconut milk serve as lactose-free substitutions.
Chipotle Sauce Infuses the dish with heat and flavor; adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Mexican Cheese Mix The star of the show for creaminess; feel free to use any melting cheese blend you love.

For the Toppings
Cherry Tomatoes Fresh additions provide brightness; other tomato varieties can be used if needed.
Corn Chips For that irresistible crunch; tortilla chips or crushed nachos make fantastic alternatives.
Cilantro Offers a refreshing garnish; it s optional green onions can also be a great substitute!

Prepare to create a delicious experience with this Mexican Mac n Cheese, bringing a touch of comfort and a burst of flavor straight to your table!

How to Make Mexican Mac n Cheese

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 220 °C (200 °C fan-forced) so it s ready when your pasta and sauce are mixed.

2. Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of water and cook the macaroni until tender; drain and set aside. Make sure it s al dente to prevent overcooking later!

3. Sauté the Chorizo: Heat vegetable oil in a large ovenproof skillet and cook the chorizo until it s lightly golden. This will infuse a smoky flavor into the dish.

4. Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Whisk in flour, onion powder, and garlic powder; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

5. Whisk in the Milk: Gradually add the full cream milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens, which should take about 6 minutes.

6. Mix in the Flavors: Stir in chipotle sauce and 1 cup of Mexican cheese, whisking until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked macaroni and sautéed chorizo to the cheese sauce. Top with cherry tomatoes and remaining corn chips, then sprinkle some cheese on top.

8. Bake to Perfection: Place the skillet in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

9. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish with pico de gallo and cilantro before serving. It pairs wonderfully with extra corn chips on the side!

Optional: Add some avocado slices for an extra creamy addition!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Mexican Mac n Cheese with Chorizo are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time, storing the unbaked mac n cheese in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just assemble the recipe until the baking stage, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When you re ready to enjoy, simply preheat your oven and bake straight from the fridge no need to thaw. For best results, add the corn chips and remaining cheese topping just before baking to keep them crunchy. By following this prep method, you ll enjoy delicious, homemade comfort food with minimal effort on busier days!

Mexican Mac n Cheese Variations

Customize your Mexican Mac n Cheese to suit your taste buds and dietary needs with these exciting ideas!

• Vegetarian: Swap chorizo for black beans or grilled veggies for a delicious meatless option that s just as satisfying.
  Elevate your dish with the vibrant flavors of roasted peppers or sautéed zucchini for a fresh twist.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta in place of regular macaroni to make this dish suitable for a gluten-sensitive palate.
  This way, you can enjoy the same cheesy goodness without compromising on your dietary preferences.

• Extra Spicy: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to ramp up the heat level for spice lovers.
  Choose your favorite chili pepper for an exciting kick that will delight your taste buds and challenge your heat threshold.

• Cheesy Delight: Add a blend of gouda and pepper jack to the traditional cheese mix for an extra melty, flavorful experience.
  The combination creates an irresistible gooeyness that will keep everyone coming back for more.

• Creamy Upgrade: Mix in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese into the cheese sauce for extra creaminess.
  It ads both richness and a tangy flavor that brings everything together perfectly.

• Zesty Burst: Squeeze fresh lime juice before serving or add a sprinkle of lime zest for a refreshing twist.
  A burst of citrus complements the richness beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

• Protein Power: Swap out chorizo for diced chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a different protein source.
  Each option provides a delightful alternative while maintaining the hearty essence of the dish.

• Crunchy Topping Twist: Instead of corn chips, try topping with panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunch while baking.
  Mix in some herbs or parmesan for a tantalizing flavor boost that will elevate the texture.

Storage Tips for Mexican Mac n Cheese

Fridge: Store any leftover Mexican Mac n Cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 180 °C (350 °F) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Add a splash of milk to keep it creamy!

Make-Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored unbaked in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply bake as directed when ready to serve.

What to Serve with Mexican Mac n Cheese?

Gather around the table and savor the delightful flavors of a well-rounded meal that perfectly complements this cheesy sensation.

• Zesty Mexican Salad: A refreshing mix of lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado dressed with lime juice. Its bright flavors contrast beautifully with the creaminess of the mac.
• Spicy Grilled Corn: Charred corn on the cob slathered with butter and chili powder adds a bit of sweetness and spice, enhancing the Mexican theme.
• Black Bean & Corn Salsa: This vibrant salsa, bursting with protein and fiber, is a tasty addition that pairs perfectly with every cheesy bite!
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks allow you to mop up any extra cheese sauce left on your plate. A comforting and fulfilling side.
• Refreshing Fruit Salad: A blend of watermelon, pineapple, and berries provides a sweet contrast, balancing the richness of the dish wonderfully.
• Margaritas: To elevate your dinner, a classic margarita with its citrusy kick complements the spicy flavors of the mac n cheese and enhances the dining experience.
• Churros for Dessert: End on a sweet note with cinnamon-sugar churros, a delightful taste of Mexico that serves as the perfect finish after an indulgent meal!

Expert Tips for Mexican Mac n Cheese

• Cook Al Dente: To prevent mushy pasta, ensure the macaroni is cooked al dente. It will absorb some sauce while baking!
• Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the amount of chipotle sauce to fit your heat preferences, allowing for a delightful balance without overwhelming the dish.
• Layering Cheese: For an even cheesier Mexican Mac n Cheese, consider adding a layer of cheese on top just before finishing the bake for a melty crust!
• Storage Strategy: If making ahead, store the unbaked dish in the fridge up to 2 days before popping it into the oven to serve fresh and hot.
• Mix in Veggies: Don t hesitate to add vegetables like bell peppers or sweet corn, increasing the nutrition while enhancing the flavor profile beautifully!

Mexican Mac n Cheese Recipe FAQs

What kind of macaroni should I use for Mexican Mac n Cheese?
Use elbow macaroni as your base, but feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like shells or fusilli for a fun twist!

How should I store leftover Mexican Mac n Cheese?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing to keep it fresh and delicious.

Can I freeze Mexican Mac n Cheese?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture and flavor.

What if my cheese sauce isn t thickening?
If your cheese sauce isn t thickening after adding the milk, be patient! Keep it on low heat and continue to whisk until it reaches the desired consistency, which usually takes about 6 minutes. If it still seems too thin, you can slowly whisk in a little more flour.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! For gluten-free versions, use gluten-free pasta and flour. If you re lactose intolerant, substituting almond milk and dairy-free cheese works wonders. Always check ingredient labels, especially for chorizo and sauces to avoid allergens!

Can I make Mexican Mac n Cheese in advance?
Very! You can prepare it unbaked and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cover it tightly and just bake as per the recipe instructions when you re ready to serve!