Description
Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy cheese sauce with tender Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon. This hearty dish is perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings, offering a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Each bite delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup fresh Brussels sprouts, sliced
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 oz crispy bacon bits
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
- Sauté sliced Brussels sprouts in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
- In another saucepan, melt butter; whisk in flour to create a roux.
- Gradually add milk, stirring until smooth; mix in shredded cheddar until melted.
- Combine cooked macaroni and sautéed Brussels sprouts with the cheese sauce.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish; top with bacon bits and panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 65mg