Name: Bacon Feta Mac and Cheese: A Creamy Twist on a Classic Favorite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 4 slices of bacon, chopped; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping); 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for breadcrumbs)

Description

Enjoy a creamy and flavorful twist on classic mac and cheese with this Bacon Feta Mac and Cheese. Featuring crispy bacon, rich cheddar, and tangy feta, all enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce with a hint of smoky paprika, this dish is perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

Scale

8 ounces elbow macaroni
4 slices of bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for breadcrumbs)

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy (5-7 minutes). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add 2 cups of whole milk, whisking until thickened (3-5 minutes). Reduce heat to low, then stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese and 1 cup of feta cheese until melted. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat. Fold in the crispy bacon, reserving some for topping if desired.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the dish. For a crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the top. Add reserved bacon if using.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Notes

For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
Feel free to substitute the cheeses based on your preference; mozzarella or gouda can also work well.
This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes