BACON MAC & CHEESE

Bacon Mac & Cheese image

Provided by Kathleen Morris

Time 1h20m

Number Of Ingredients 13

6 - 7 slice thick sliced smoked bacon
salt
2 c elbow macaroni
1 1/2 c half and half
2 Tbsp butter
2 Tbsp all purpose flour
4 oz gruyere cheese, grated
3 oz sharp cheddar, grated
2 oz blue cheese, crumbled
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
pinch nutmeg
1/4 c italian bread crumbs
2 Tbsp freshly chopped basil leaves

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Meanwhile cook bacon until crisp, and crumble when cool.
2. Drizzle oil into a large pot of boiling salted water. Add macaroni and cook according to the directions, then drain.
3. In a small saucepan heat the half and half, but do not boil it. In another saucepan heat the butter then add the flour and cook over low heat for 2 minutes constantly stirring with a wisk.
4. While still whisking, add the hot half and half and cook for approximately 2 more minutes until thickened and smooth.
5. Remove from heat and add the cheeses and spices and mix well; then add the macaroni and crumbled bacon, again, stir well. Pour into oven safe casserole bowl.
6. Add the basil to the bread crumbs and sprinkle over the top of the pasta. Bake for 35 minutes or until sauce is bubbly and macaroni is browned on top.