Ingredients for Bacon Loaded Mac N Cheese
- 6 slices bacon
- 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup margarine
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- salt, to taste
- ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp bacon grease
- 1/2 cup pasta water (optional)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
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How to Make Bacon Loaded Mac N Cheese
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry 6 slices of bacon until crispy. Crumble and set aside, reserving 2 tablespoons of bacon grease.
- Cook 1 pound of elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) of butter or margarine in the reserved bacon grease. Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Bring to a simmer.
- Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni, crumbled bacon, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine. Add a little reserved pasta water if the mixture is too thick.
- Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
29 g
Sugar
2g
Fat
58g
Carbs
6g
