Bacon Macaroni and Cheese

Recipe View 5 mins Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). (5 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins Cook penne pasta in a large pot of boiling, salted water until al dente. Drain well. (8-10 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins While the pasta cooks, cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Crumble and set aside, reserving 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the bacon fat. Cook over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Melt butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 7 mins Gradually whisk in milk, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and is smooth. (5-7 minutes)

Recipe View 3 mins Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 2 cups of the shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, bacon and onion mixture, and cheese sauce. Mix well to coat. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top. (1 minute)

Recipe View 20 mins Bake uncovered in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned, 15 to 20 minutes. (15-20 minutes)

Recipe View Let stand for a few minutes before serving. (2 minutes)