Indulge in a mouthwatering dish that marries the richness of macaroni and cheese with the delightful flavor of sun-dried tomatoes and the savory crunch of bacon. This Sun Dried Tomato Macaroni & Cheese with Bacon is not only a feast for the palate but also a comforting meal that is sure to please a crowd. Below is a detailed guide on how to prepare this sumptuous recipe.
Sun Dried Tomato Macaroni & Cheese with Bacon
Gather your ingredients and let’s get started on creating this decadent dish. You will experience a harmonious blend of textures and flavors with every bite that will leave your guests raving.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 strips of bacon, chopped
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, place a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, then remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
- In the same skillet, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually pour in the milk and half-and-half, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add the cream cheese to the skillet and stir until it is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Toss the cooked macaroni, sun-dried tomatoes, and crispy bacon into the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Remove from heat and let the dish sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped basil for a touch of freshness.
- Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in every bite.
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This Sun Dried Tomato Macaroni & Cheese with Bacon is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. The creamy cheese sauce complemented by the tangy sun-dried tomatoes and crispy bacon creates a rich, satisfying meal that will become a go-to comfort food in your culinary repertoire.