Creamy Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Crunch

When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, it’s a creamy bowl of mac and cheese, bursting with gooey cheese that hugs every elbow macaroni like a warm blanket on a chilly night. Now, imagine that heavenly dish sprinkled with crispy bacon breadcrumbs and subtly roasted Brussels sprouts. Your taste buds just did a happy dance, didn’t they? This Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs is not only delicious but will have your friends thinking you’re a culinary genius.

Picture this: You’re hosting a cozy gathering with your favorite people, the smell of cheese wafting through the air, mingling perfectly with the savory scent of bacon. Everyone is eagerly waiting for that first bite. savory breakfast egg muffins Trust me; this dish will steal the show faster than your uncle Bob can tell his fourth dad joke of the evening. It’s perfect for any occasion—game nights, family dinners, or even just because it’s Tuesday!

Ingredients for Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

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

• Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese; its shape holds onto all that cheesy goodness.
• Brussels Sprouts: Roast these little green gems to bring out their sweetness and add a unique texture.
• Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for an extra crunch in those breadcrumbs; it adds smoky flavor.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: A must-have for that rich and tangy flavor profile in your mac and cheese.
• Milk: Whole milk works best for achieving that creamy sauce consistency everyone craves.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is perfect for cooking the roux without adding extra salt.

For the Topping:

• Bread Crumbs: Choose panko for an extra crispy topping; they toast beautifully in the oven.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds depth to the topping; use freshly grated for maximum flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes recipe.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. vegetarian quesadilla recipe.

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). Grab a large pot and fill it with water—add a pinch of salt like you’re sprinkling fairy dust! Bring it to a boil while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Cook Your Pasta

Once the water is boiling, toss in your elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente—about eight minutes should do it. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Roast Those Brussels Sprouts

While the pasta cooks, slice your Brussels sprouts in half. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven until they are golden brown—about fifteen minutes should suffice.

Step 4: Make That Cheesy Sauce

In another pot over medium heat, melt butter (about four tablespoons). Whisk in flour (a quarter cup) until smooth to create a roux. Gradually add milk (three cups), whisking constantly until thickened—think creamy clouds! Stir in shredded cheddar until melted.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Mix your cooked pasta into the cheesy goodness along with those beautiful roasted Brussels sprouts. Pour into a greased baking dish.

Step 6: Prepare Toppings

In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs with chopped cooked bacon (around six slices) and grated Parmesan cheese (half a cup). Sprinkle generously over the mac and cheese.

Transfer to plates and serve hot for maximum deliciousness! You’ll want to savor each bite of Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs while basking in that glorious moment when everyone at the table sighs contentedly—it’s music to every cook’s ears!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente while you sauté the Brussels sprouts until they’re golden brown. Then, prepare the creamy cheese sauce, combining everything together before topping it with crispy bacon breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to mix things up! Swap out Brussels sprouts for kale or broccoli, use different cheeses like gouda or cheddar, or sprinkle some chili flakes for a spicy kick. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk for creaminess and pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

While making this dish one rainy Sunday afternoon, I remember my friend taking a bite and exclaiming that it was life-changing. I think we might have shed a tear over cheesy goodness!

FAQs

What are the key ingredients for Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs?

To prepare this delightful dish, you’ll need elbow macaroni, Brussels sprouts, bacon, cheese (cheddar works best), milk, butter, flour, and breadcrumbs. The combination of creamy cheese sauce and crispy bacon breadcrumbs adds a rich flavor to your mac and cheese. You can also add spices like garlic powder or mustard for extra zest.

How long does it take to make Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs?

The entire process of making Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs takes about 45 minutes. This includes the time to cook the pasta, prepare the cheese sauce, roast the Brussels sprouts, and assemble everything together. It’s a quick yet satisfying meal that is perfect for any day of the week.

Can I make Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this delicious dish ahead of time. To do so, cook it until just before baking. Allow it to cool completely before covering it tightly and storing it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the oven until bubbly and golden brown.

What can I serve with Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs?

Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also enjoy it as a standalone dish or serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein. healthy Greek salad This versatile recipe complements various sides beautifully.

Conclusion for Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

In summary, Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs combines creamy comfort food with nutritious veggies and crispy toppings. This recipe is easy to prepare, taking about 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy this delightful dish any day of the week! For more inspiration, check out this Easy Bangers and Mash recipe.

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Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

Print Recipe

Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs is a comforting twist on a classic favorite. This creamy dish combines al dente elbow macaroni, roasted Brussels sprouts, and crispy bacon breadcrumbs, creating an irresistible flavor profile that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. The delightful contrast between the rich cheese sauce and crunchy topping makes this dish not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

• Author: sofia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and chopped
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Boil salted water in a large pot.
2. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
3. Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for about 15 minutes until golden brown.
4. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth to form a roux. Gradually add milk while whisking constantly until thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and roasted Brussels sprouts in a greased baking dish.
6. Mix panko breadcrumbs with chopped bacon and Parmesan cheese; sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
7. Bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Serve hot.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, add garlic powder or mustard to the cheese sauce. Substitute Brussels sprouts with broccoli or kale if desired. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat by adding a splash of milk.