Amazing Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

The aroma of bubbling cheese wafts through the air, mingling with the salty crunch of crispy bacon and the earthy essence of Brussels sprouts. This isn’t just any mac and cheese; this is Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs. easy one pot lasagna soup Picture a dish that hugs you like your favorite blanket on a chilly day while simultaneously making your taste buds do a happy dance.

I can still remember the first time I whipped up this masterpiece in my kitchen. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and I was looking for comfort food that would not only fill my belly but also lift my spirits. With every layer of cheesy goodness and those crunchy bacon breadcrumbs, I felt like a culinary magician conjuring warmth and joy from simple ingredients. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or even as a showstopper at potlucks, this dish promises to deliver an unforgettable flavor experience.

Ingredients for Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs: For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Amish Country Casserole recipe.

• Macaroni Pasta: Use elbow macaroni for that classic texture; cook until al dente for the best results.
• Brussels Sprouts: Select fresh, firm sprouts to add a nutty flavor that balances the richness of the cheese.
• Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for extra crunch; it’s key to achieving that perfect bacon breadcrumb topping.
• Cheddar Cheese: Aged cheddar works wonders here; it gives a sharp flavor that complements the creaminess beautifully.
• Milk: Whole milk creates a rich sauce; feel free to substitute with low-fat milk if you’re feeling healthy.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the overall saltiness of your dish.
• Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunchiness atop your mac and cheese.

For the Sauce:

• Flour: A must for thickening your cheese sauce; all-purpose flour gives great results here.
• Garlic Powder: Adds depth to your sauce without overpowering other flavors; it’s like magic in powdered form!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add macaroni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

While your pasta cooks, trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts, slice them in half, and sauté them in a skillet over medium heat with some butter until they’re tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

In another skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat, crumble into pieces, and set aside while keeping some drippings in the pan.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

Using the same skillet where you cooked bacon, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then slowly add milk while stirring constantly until thickened. Stir in garlic powder and gradually add shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, stir together cooked macaroni, sautéed Brussels sprouts, crumbled bacon (reserve some for topping), and cheese sauce until well combined. For more inspiration, check out this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup recipe.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with reserved bacon pieces. Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

This delectable Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs will surely become your new go-to comfort food. Its creamy texture combined with crispy toppings provides an enjoyable contrast that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Who knew vegetables could taste so good? Enjoy every cheesy bite! vegetable-packed quiche.

Perfecting Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs Cooking Process

Start by cooking the bacon until it’s crispy, then remove and set aside. Use that delicious bacon fat to sauté Brussels sprouts until golden. Cook your pasta while preparing the cheese sauce, combining everything in a large baking dish for a seamless process.

Add Your Touch to Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

Feel free to swap out Brussels sprouts for broccoli or kale if they’re not your thing. Add spices like smoked paprika or even some garlic powder for an extra kick. You could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Storing & Reheating Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of milk to revive creaminess if needed.

When preparing this dish, my friend declared it “life-changing.” Who knew that bacon could elevate mac and cheese to such divine heights? It became our go-to comfort food during movie nights!

FAQs About Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

What is Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs?

Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. This dish combines creamy, cheesy pasta with roasted Brussels sprouts for added texture and flavor. Topped with crispy bacon breadcrumbs, it elevates the traditional mac and cheese to a new level of deliciousness. savory bacon roasted potatoes The combination of flavors makes this meal not only satisfying but also nutritious, as it incorporates vegetables into a beloved favorite.

How do you prepare Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs?

Preparing Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs involves several simple steps. Start by cooking the pasta until al dente. Meanwhile, roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven until they are golden brown. In a separate pot, make a creamy cheese sauce by melting butter, adding flour, milk, and cheese until smooth. Combine the cooked pasta, roasted sprouts, and the cheese sauce together. Finally, top it all off with crispy bacon breadcrumbs before baking until bubbly.

Can I make Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs ahead of time! Prepare the dish up to the baking stage, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake it directly from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through properly.

What variations can I try for Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs?

There are many variations you can try for Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs! For a healthier option, consider substituting whole grain or gluten-free pasta. You can also experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or Gruyère for varying flavors. cheesy garlic pastry Adding spices such as garlic powder or smoked paprika can enhance the taste further. For an even richer texture, consider adding some cream or sour cream to your cheese sauce.

Conclusion for Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

In conclusion, Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs offers a delightful balance of creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and crispy toppings. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings. With its unique combination of flavors and textures, it transforms a classic recipe into something special. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated later, this mac and cheese will surely become a favorite in your household.

Print

Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Hannah Reed
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy pasta with the nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts and the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon. This dish not only warms your soul but also delights your taste buds with its rich textures and flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
• 4 strips thick-cut bacon
• 2 cups shredded aged cheddar cheese
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté halved Brussels sprouts in a skillet with butter until tender and caramelized. Set aside.
3. Cook bacon in another skillet until crispy, crumble, and reserve drippings.
4. In the same skillet as bacon, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk, stirring until thickened. Incorporate garlic powder and cheese until melted.
5. Combine macaroni, Brussels sprouts, and cheese sauce in a large bowl; mix well.
6. Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with panko mixed with reserved bacon pieces, and bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 55mg