Bacon and Pea Macaroni & Cheese Recipe

Bacon and Pea Macaroni & Cheese

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food with a touch of elegance, this Bacon and Pea Macaroni & Cheese recipe is just what you need. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with crispy bacon and sweet peas, it’s a dish that will satisfy your cravings and delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Cooking the Macaroni:

1. Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set it aside.

Preparing the Bacon and Peas:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes crispy. Remove it from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain excess grease.
2. In the same skillet, add the thawed peas and cook for a few minutes until they are heated through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Cheese Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns slightly golden.
2. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using). Adjust the seasonings to your taste.

Combining Everything:

1. Add the cooked macaroni, crispy bacon, and heated peas to the cheese sauce. Stir everything together until the macaroni is well coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
2. Allow the mixture to heat through for a couple of minutes, ensuring all the flavors meld together.

Serving:

1. Once the Bacon and Pea Macaroni & Cheese is ready, serve it hot. You can garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Enjoy this indulgent and comforting dish as a main course or a side, and savor the combination of cheesy goodness, smoky bacon, and sweet peas.

This Bacon and Pea Macaroni & Cheese recipe is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It’s a classic comfort food with a delightful twist that will leave everyone craving for more.

Source: damndelicious.net