Baked Macaroni And Cheese With Bacon Recipe

Ingredients for Baked Macaroni And Cheese With Bacon

• Elbow Macaroni
• 1/4 cup butter
• Sifted Flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1/4 cup hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese
• 8 ounces cooked and crumbled bacon
• Breadcrumbs

How to Make Baked Macaroni And Cheese With Bacon

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook 1 pound elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter over low heat.
3. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until smooth (this is your roux).
4. Gradually whisk in 3 cups milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and comes to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup hot sauce (adjust to your spice preference).
6. Add the cooked macaroni, 8 ounces cooked and crumbled bacon, and 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend).
7. Stir until the cheese is melted and the pasta is evenly coated.
8. Pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
9. (Optional) Top with extra cheese, bread crumbs, or more bacon.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.