splurge day. [bacon & jalapeño mac & cheese]

November 13th, 2013 by | comments

IMG_4745Mac and cheese can do no wrong…especially when bacon is involved. I think we can all agree on that. The subtle kick of the jalapeno and the saltiness of the bacon in this dish provide a nice balance of flavors. This mac and cheese is pretty rich, so it’s a great recipe to make on your splurge day. :)


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bacon & jalapeño mac & cheese
Prep time: 
Cook time: 
Total time: 
Serves: 5-8
 
Ingredients
  • 1 bag (16 oz.) Trader Joe's fusilli
  • 8 tbsp. (1 stick) salted butter
  • 7 tbsp. flour
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 2 cups fat-free milk
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 cup Jarlsberg, grated
  • 1 cup Gruyère, grated
  • 2-4 tsp. dry white wine, plus more or less to taste and desired consistency
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 jalapeños, seeded, de-veined and diced
  • 1 lb. bacon, cut into bite-size pieces then cooked
Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add fusilli and cook according to package directions. Strain pasta then return to large pot.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt butter and flour over medium heat until bubbly and thick, but not browned, about 2-3 minutes. Add whipping cream and milk. Whisking constantly, let mixture thicken, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Add cheeses, salt and pepper, and continue stirring. After sauce is smooth and cheese is melted, stir in wine. Pour ¾ of the cheese sauce (or less) into pot of pasta and stir together. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place bacon pieces in pan and cook until crispy. Remove bacon from skillet and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Add bacon pieces and diced jalapeno to mac and cheese and mix.
  5. Top macaroni with scallions or chives, if desired. Serve hot.

 

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