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Kimchi Mac and Cheese

Kimchi Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, and with a spicy kick from fermented kimchi, this Kimchi Mac and Cheese is the ultimate fusion comfort food. Perfect for weeknights or gatherings, it’s bold, flavorful, and unforgettable.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup kimchi, finely chopped and drained
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon gochujang (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Sauté chopped kimchi in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes. Set aside.
  4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly until thickened.
  5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and gochujang (if using).
  6. Fold in sautéed kimchi and cooked pasta until well combined.
  7. Transfer to baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs and extra cheese if desired.
  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest 5 minutes.
  9. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.

Notes

  • Press the kimchi to remove excess liquid before using.
  • For extra spice, add more gochujang or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
  • Can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Fusion
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 460
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 820mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: kimchi mac and cheese, fusion pasta recipe, spicy mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, cheesy Korean pasta