Description
A comforting bowl of creamy and cheesy pasta, enhanced with crispy bacon and caramelized onions, perfect for family gatherings and cozy evenings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz macaroni (elbow, cavatappi, or shells)
- 4 strips bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, caramelized
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella)
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Sizzle the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, around 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
- Caramelize the Onions: In the same skillet, using the bacon drippings, add the chopped onions. Cook until softened and fragrant.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour for about one minute, then gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
- Add the Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until smooth.
- Combine Everything: In the skillet with the caramelized onions, add the cooked macaroni and crispy bacon. Pour in the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Bake: Transfer to a greased baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Serve: Scoop out portions and enjoy hot.
Notes
Feel free to customize with different cheeses or add veggies for extra nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg