Creamy Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Crunch

Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs is the ultimate comfort food that will have your taste buds dancing like no one is watching. Imagine creamy, cheesy goodness enveloping tender pasta, all topped with crispy bacon breadcrumbs and roasted Brussels sprouts. kid-friendly pasta recipes This dish doesn’t just taste good; it feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes recipe.

Now, let’s talk about the memories this recipe brings back. Picture yourself on a cozy night, gathered around the dinner table with friends or family, laughter filling the air as everyone digs into their bowls of cheesy delight. cheesy elote quesadilla The anticipation builds as you serve this masterpiece, knowing that it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience.

Ingredients for Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

For more inspiration, check out this Ultimate Guinness Beef Stew recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese; its shape holds onto the creamy cheese sauce perfectly.
• Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts bring a slight bitterness that balances the rich flavors in the dish.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: For an intense cheesy flavor, go for sharp cheddar; it melts beautifully.
• Milk: Use whole milk for creaminess; it helps create a luscious cheese sauce.
• Bacon: Cooked until crispy, bacon adds a smoky crunch that’s utterly irresistible.

For the Breadcrumb Topping:

• Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunchiness; they hold up well when baked. ground turkey pasta bake.

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 dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because nobody likes cold mac and cheese—unless you’re living life dangerously.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you work on that dreamy cheese sauce.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before spreading them out on a baking sheet. Roast for about 20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter before whisking in flour until smooth—about one minute should do. Gradually add milk while stirring continuously to avoid lumps until thickened. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and roasted Brussels sprouts. Pour everything into a greased baking dish.

Step 6: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, combine cooked bacon pieces with breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this crispy concoction evenly over your mac and cheese mixture before sliding it into the oven.

Transfer to plates and enjoy this delightful blend of flavors! Serve it hot for maximum cheesiness—your taste buds will thank you!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the bacon until crispy for that smoky flavor, then set it aside. Cook the Brussels sprouts in the bacon fat for extra taste while boiling your pasta. Make your cheese sauce next, and combine everything for a creamy, dreamy dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out Brussels sprouts for broccoli or spinach if they’re not your jam. Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack, and add some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F until bubbly, or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to maintain creaminess.

It reminds me of one cozy evening when my friend brought her kids over. They were skeptical about Brussels sprouts but gobbled up this dish! I still chuckle thinking about their surprised faces when they asked for seconds.

FAQs

What makes Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs special?

Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs combines creamy cheese sauce with the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon. This dish elevates traditional mac and cheese by adding texture and a depth of flavor that complements the cheese. The addition of Brussels sprouts not only enhances the nutritional value but also introduces a slightly bitter contrast that balances the richness of the cheese.

How do I prepare the Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

To prepare Brussels sprouts for Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs, first trim the ends and remove any yellow leaves. Then, slice them in half to ensure even cooking. You can either roast them in the oven or sauté them in a pan until they are tender and slightly caramelized. This method brings out their natural sweetness, making them a delicious addition to the creamy pasta dish.

Can I make Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs vegetarian by omitting the bacon or substituting it with a plant-based alternative. You can also enhance the dish’s flavor by adding sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for a smoky taste. The creamy cheese sauce combined with the savory veggies will still provide a satisfying meal without meat.

What type of cheese works best for Mac and Cheese?

For Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs, use a combination of cheeses for optimal flavor. Cheddar is a classic choice due to its sharpness, while Gruyère adds creaminess and depth. Mozzarella can provide stretchiness if you enjoy gooey textures. Mixing these cheeses will create a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs well with the Brussels sprouts and bacon breadcrumbs.

Conclusion for Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

In conclusion, Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs offers a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. The creamy cheese sauce blends perfectly with roasted Brussels sprouts and crunchy bacon breadcrumbs, creating an irresistible dish that is both hearty and satisfying. butternut squash mac and cheese By following this recipe, you can enjoy a delicious meal that combines rich flavors with nutritious ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion.

Print

Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amanda
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. This creamy, cheesy pasta dish features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, complemented by roasted Brussels sprouts and topped with crispy bacon breadcrumbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe brings warmth and delight to your dinner table in just a few simple steps.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast on a baking sheet for about 20 minutes until golden brown.
4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; whisk in flour and cook for one minute. Gradually add milk while stirring until thickened. Stir in cheddar until melted.
5. Combine macaroni, cheese sauce, and roasted Brussels sprouts in a bowl; transfer to a greased baking dish.
6. Mix bacon with panko breadcrumbs; sprinkle over the mac and cheese mixture before baking for 20 minutes or until golden.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 55mg