Description
A delicious twist on classic mac and cheese, featuring creamy white cheddar and smoky bacon for a satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Gradually add milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Stir in white cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until well coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish. Sprinkle crumbled bacon and extra cheese on top. Broil on high for 2–3 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, white cheddar, bacon, comfort food, pasta