Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with a mouthwatering twist on a classic favorite! Imagine the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese, perfectly blended with the savory crunch of bacon, and topped with fresh lettuce and juicy tomatoes. This BLT Mac n Cheese is not just a dish; it's a culinary experience that will have your taste buds dancing with joy! Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and guarantees satisfaction in every bite. Don’t miss out on the chance to impress your guests or indulge yourself in this delightful fusion of flavors!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chopped lettuce
- 2 tomatoes, diced
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni, 4 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 2 cups of milk, 1/4 cup of butter, 1/4 cup of flour, salt and pepper to taste, 2 cups of chopped lettuce, and 2 diced tomatoes.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the macaroni is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux. This will help thicken the cheese sauce.
- Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sauce is thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- After the macaroni is cooked, drain it well and return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and gently mix until all the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Fold in the crumbled bacon, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the mac and cheese.
- To serve, spoon the BLT mac n cheese into bowls and top each serving with a generous amount of chopped lettuce and diced tomatoes. This will add a fresh crunch and the classic BLT flavor to your dish.
- Enjoy your delicious homemade BLT mac n cheese!
Tips
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the elbow macaroni just until al dente for the best texture. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the cheese sauce.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes. This will enhance the overall taste and texture of your dish.
- Whisk the Roux Well: When making the roux, whisk continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth cheese sauce. This step is crucial for a creamy consistency.
- Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, consider mixing in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a more complex flavor profile.
- Don’t Skip the Toppings: The fresh lettuce and tomatoes are not just for decoration; they add a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the mac and cheese.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. Simply assemble the mac and cheese without the toppings, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve!
- Customize Your Bacon: If you like a bit of heat, try using peppered bacon or even add a pinch of cayenne to the cheese sauce for an extra kick!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 90mg
