Description
Indulge in a creamy, savory delight with this Aromatic Indulgent Mac and Cheese featuring tender Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon breadcrumbs. Combining rich cheddar cheese and al dente elbow macaroni, this elevated comfort food is perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings. Experience a balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- 1. **Cook Pasta**: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, then drain.
- 2. **Prepare Brussels Sprouts**: In a skillet, sauté halved Brussels sprouts in olive oil over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- 3. **Cook Bacon**: In the same skillet, fry bacon until crispy (about 5-7 minutes). Crumble and set aside while reserving drippings.
- 4. **Make Cheese Sauce**: Melt butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour for one minute, then gradually add milk and garlic powder until thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- 5. **Combine Ingredients**: In a bowl, mix macaroni, Brussels sprouts, crumbled bacon (reserve some for topping), and cheese sauce.
- 6. **Bake**: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs and reserved bacon bits. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 440
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg