Sometimes healing looks like a salad. Other times, it looks like a pot of creamy, spicy mac and cheese stirred with intention and Hatch green chili heat. This is one of those recipes that hugs you from the inside out.

Comfort in a Bowl: Hatch Green Chili Mac & Cheese (with a GF Twist!)

Here’s what I love about this dish: it’s got heat, heart, and a whole lot of flexibility. Whether you’re feeding a gluten-free friend, cozying up for movie night, or just reclaiming your Tuesday evening from the chaos—it delivers.

Trader Joe’s came through with their Hatch green chilies (seriously, stock up when they hit the shelf), and this recipe lets them shine without overpowering. And if you’re someone who’s navigating gut health, swaps like almond milk and brown rice flour still give you that creamy-smooth, spice-forward flavor you’re craving.

Plus, it’s one pot. Which means less mess. More time for wine. Or journaling. Or just sitting still for a dang minute.

Recipe: Hatch Green Chili Mac & Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 lb whole wheat pasta (or gluten-free pasta)
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp brown rice flour
• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
• ¼ tsp turmeric
• ½ tsp white pepper
• ½ tsp chipotle chili powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup Hatch green chilies (Trader Joe’s or similar)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded
• 1 cup white cheddar, shredded

Instructions

1. Cook pasta until just al dente. Set aside.
2. In the same pot or a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Stir in brown rice flour and cook for 2 minutes to create a roux.
4. Slowly whisk in almond milk and bring to a gentle boil.
5. Remove from heat. Stir in all spices. Add green chilies and cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy.
6. Return pasta to the pot and stir to coat with cheesy sauce.
7. Optional: Top with toasted breadcrumbs or a drizzle of garlic scape pesto.

Tips & Swaps:

• Dairy lover? Use regular milk and butter without losing any of the magic.
• Want it creamier? Stir in a scoop of plain Greek yogurt before serving.
• Heat junkie? Add chopped jalapeños or more chipotle.