Bacon Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 6 slices bacon
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2½ cup milk
• 2 cup sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• ½ cup bread crumbs (optional)

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. Cook bacon in a large skillet until crispy. Remove bacon, crumble, and set aside, reserving 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.
3. Melt butter with reserved bacon fat in the skillet over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth.
5. Stir in salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard (if using). Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.
6. Pour macaroni mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with crumbled bacon and bread crumbs (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let stand for a few minutes before serving.