BLT MAC AND CHEESE

BLT Mac and Cheese image

When creamy mac-n-cheese meets the BLT-inspired ingredients of savory bacon, spinach and tomato, the end result is an all-new American classic.

Provided by By Arlene Cummings

Categories Entree

Time 1h5m

Yield 10

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

1 loaf (32 oz. box) VELVEETA™ Original Cheese, cut into large cubes
1/4 cup butter
4 cups whole milk
1 package (16 oz) elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (8 oz)
2 cups small cherry tomatoes
1 bag (9 oz) fresh spinach
1 lb bacon, crisply cooked, crumbled
1 cup Progresso™ plain or Italian-style panko crispy bread crumbs

Steps:

In large microwavable bowl, place cheese cubes, butter and milk. Microwave uncovered on High 8 to 10 minutes. Stir with whisk; microwave on High 4 minutes longer. Stir again; repeat microwaving until all cheese is melted and mixture can be stirred smooth, a total of about 15 minutes.
Heat oven to 350°F. Cook macaroni in boiling salted water 3 minutes less than directed on box (macaroni should be firm). Drain; place in 15x10-inch (4-quart) glass baking dish. Pour melted cheese sauce over macaroni; mix well. Stir in shredded cheese, tomatoes and spinach.
Cover dish with foil; bake 30 minutes. Uncover; sprinkle bacon and bread crumbs evenly over top. Bake 5 minutes longer or until top is lightly browned. Cool at least 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 770, Carbohydrate 64 g, Cholesterol 135 mg, Fat 1 1/2, Fiber 3 g, Protein 38 g, SaturatedFat 23 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 2120 mg, Sugar 17 g, TransFat 1 1/2 g