Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped lettuce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking bacon
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Baking dish for baking mac and cheese
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth.
5. Gradually add milk to the skillet, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
6. Add shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth.
7. Add cooked macaroni, diced tomatoes, and chopped bacon to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
8. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
10. Remove from oven and sprinkle chopped lettuce on top.
11. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 549
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 23g
Sodium: 574mg
Sugar: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a healthier option.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of the recipe.
- Use different types of cheese such as Gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp to the mac and cheese for a protein boost.
- Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Use different types of pasta such as penne or rotini.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the bacon until crispy to add texture to the mac and cheese.
- Use whole milk for a creamier cheese sauce.
- Don't overcook the pasta to avoid mushy mac and cheese.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat mac and cheese in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve BLT Mac and Cheese in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for added color and flavor.
Pairings:
Pair BLT Mac and Cheese with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add more cheese or milk to make it creamier.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the bacon and pasta thoroughly to avoid foodborne illness.
Food history:
Mac and cheese originated in Italy and was brought to the United States by Thomas Jefferson. It became popular in the US during the Great Depression as a cheap and filling meal.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, smoky, tangy
Serving suggestions:
Serve BLT Mac and Cheese as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A