Indulgent Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

Imagine a cozy kitchen filled with the rich aroma of bubbling cheese and crispy bacon. This Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs is not just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl, where savory meets indulgent in the most delightful way. Rosemary Honey Butter Pasta Picture creamy pasta enveloped in a cheesy embrace, with the satisfying crunch of bacon breadcrumbs adding that perfect finishing touch. Whipped Ricotta With Honey Your taste buds are already doing a happy dance, aren’t they?

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Now, let me take you back to last Thanksgiving. I decided to serve something different alongside the turkey and stuffing – this mac and cheese masterpiece! The look on my family’s faces as they dug into this dish was priceless, as if I had just handed them the secret to happiness. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, promising an explosion of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

I remember the moment my friend took her first bite and exclaimed, “This is life-changing!” That kind of feedback makes all the cooking worth it.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Macaroni Pasta: Use elbow macaroni for that classic shape that holds onto the cheese sauce perfectly.
• Brussels Sprouts: Fresh brussels sprouts add an earthy flavor; trim and slice them thinly for even cooking.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Aged sharp cheddar provides that robust flavor; grate it fresh for best results.
• Milk: Whole milk gives creaminess; you can use half-and-half for an extra indulgent sauce.
• Butter: Unsalted butter enhances flavor without excess salt; essential for making your roux.
• Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for crunch; toss them with cooked bacon for extra flavor.

For the Sauce:

• Flour: All-purpose flour works well to thicken your cheese sauce; whisk it into the butter until bubbly.
• Garlic Powder: Adds depth of flavor; feel free to adjust based on your preference for garlicky goodness. Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken.
• Mustard Powder: A pinch adds a subtle tang; it’s like a secret ingredient that elevates the dish!

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Add macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Brussels Sprouts: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add sliced Brussels sprouts and sauté until tender and caramelized, around 5-7 minutes. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe recipe.

Create the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Gradually add milk while whisking until smooth.

Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Add garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Combine Everything Together: Mix cooked pasta with cheese sauce and sautéed Brussels sprouts in a large bowl. Make sure every noodle is coated!

Topping Time!: In another skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Combine with panko breadcrumbs and sprinkle over mac and cheese before baking at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly.

Now you have made an irresistible Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs that will delight everyone at your table! Enjoy every cheesy bite! Avocado Bacon Salad Wraps.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To cook this dish efficiently, start by boiling your pasta while sautéing Brussels sprouts. Then, prepare the bacon breadcrumbs for extra crunch before combining everything together.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to substitute the Brussels sprouts with spinach or kale. You can also add different cheeses for a unique flavor profile or sprinkle in some hot sauce for a kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly.

Cooking this dish reminds me of family gatherings where laughter and good food filled the air. Everyone loved how crispy the bacon breadcrumbs were on top!

FAQ

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, but fresh ones offer a better texture and taste in this recipe.

What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar pairs perfectly, but feel free to experiment with gouda or mozzarella.

How can I make it vegetarian?

Simply omit the bacon and replace it with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

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• Author: Emma Taylor
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs is a comforting dish that combines creamy macaroni pasta with earthy Brussels sprouts and a crunchy bacon topping. This indulgent recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, offering an explosion of flavor in every bite. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, sliced
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 4 oz cooked bacon, chopped
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp mustard powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook elbow macaroni until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add sliced Brussels sprouts and sauté until tender (5-7 minutes).
3. In a saucepan, melt remaining butter. Whisk in flour and cook until golden (about 2 minutes). Gradually add milk while whisking until smooth.
4. Stir in grated cheddar until melted. Add garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Mix pasta with cheese sauce and sautéed Brussels sprouts in a large bowl.
6. In another skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Combine with panko breadcrumbs and sprinkle over mac and cheese.
7. Transfer to an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 55mg