Smoky Bacon Mac and Cheese Creation

Today’s Creation: Smoky Bacon Mac and Cheese

Greetings, foodies! Today, I am excited to share with you my latest culinary creation: Smoky Bacon Mac and Cheese. This dish is perfect for those cozy nights in when you’re craving something warm, comforting, and oh-so-indulgent. The rich, smoky flavors of the bacon paired with the creamy, cheesy goodness of the macaroni will surely leave you wanting seconds!

Ingredients:

• elbow macaroni (250g)
• bacon strips, chopped (150g)
• smoked gouda cheese, grated (200g)
• mozzarella cheese, grated (150g)
• butter (50g)
• all-purpose flour (30g)
• milk (500ml)
• smoked paprika (10g)
• garlic powder (5g)
• salt and pepper to taste

Kitchen Tools:

• saucepan
• skillet
• whisk
• baking dish

To begin, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, then set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for a few minutes until it turns golden brown. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Allow the sauce to thicken before adding the grated smoked gouda and mozzarella cheeses. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Combine the cooked macaroni, crispy bacon, and cheese sauce in a baking dish. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Once out of the oven, let the mac and cheese cool slightly before serving. This dish weighs approximately 1200g in total and serves 6 people. Each serving is about 200g and packs a gooey, flavorful punch of about 450 calories.

For a unique twist, try adding a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce mixture for an extra kick of flavor. Enjoy this smoky bacon mac and cheese with your loved ones and savor every bite of cheesy goodness. Happy cooking!