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Tags and nutritional info are auto-generated and may be inaccurate. Always check the full ingredient list before cooking.
This recipe combines creamy cheese sauce with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, topped with crispy bacon, breadcrumbs, and fragrant rosemary. The milk is infused with garlic and bay leaves, adding subtle depth to the sauce, while the mix of emmental, red leicester, and parmesan creates a rich and balanced flavor. Broiled to golden perfection, this dish is a satisfying treat.
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Warm the milk with garlic and bay leaves over medium heat until fragrant.
Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat, add the flour, and cook for 2 minutes while stirring until it forms a smooth paste.
Gradually add the warm milk to the roux while whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Add the emmental, red leicester, and parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and combined.
If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a bit more warm milk.
Finish the sauce by stirring in dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling water until about 2/3 done, then drain.
Mix the partially cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with bacon, breadcrumbs, and rosemary.
Broil the dish in the oven until the topping is golden and crispy.
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If you don’t have red leicester, you can substitute it with red cheddar.
For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce.
Make sure to whisk continuously while adding milk to the roux to avoid lumps.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli, but elbow macaroni is traditional for mac & cheese.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Combine them and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of bacon for the topping?
You can use chopped mushrooms or caramelized onions as a vegetarian alternative.
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
Ensure the milk is warm and add the cheese gradually while stirring to prevent graininess.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
