Home Made Mac and Cheese with Bacon Crumble Topping
This recipe provides a delicious and easy-to-make macaroni and cheese casserole with a crispy bacon crumble topping. It uses high-quality ingredients for a richer flavor.
This recipe provides a delicious and easy-to-make macaroni and cheese casserole with a crispy bacon crumble topping. It uses high-quality ingredients for a richer flavor.
- 1/2 cup cooked crumbled bacon
- 2 tablespoons horizon® organic unsalted butter
- 4 ounces horizon® organic cream cheese
- 1 (6 ounce) box horizon® classicmac™ macaroni & mild cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup horizon® organic reduced fat milk
- 1/2 cup horizon® organic shreds shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen chopped broccoli, thawed
- 1 cup herb-seasoned panko
- Carbohydrate 53.4
- Cholesterol 65
- Fat 25
- Protein 17.9
- Sodium 851
- Calories 481 calories;
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Spray 8x8-inch casserole dish with cooking oil.
- Prepare Macaroni & Cheese according to package directions.
- Stir in cream cheese and Cheddar cheese.
- Add broccoli.
- Pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
- Combine panko and bacon crumbles; sprinkle over the mac & cheese.
- Bake until topping is golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes.
My Go-To Comfort Food: Creamy Mac & Cheese with a Bacon Twist
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework help, and the ever-present to-do list. But there's something about a warm, comforting meal that makes even the most chaotic day feel a little more manageable. That's where this recipe comes in – my go-to creamy mac and cheese with a crispy bacon crumble topping.
This isn't your average boxed mac and cheese. Oh no, this recipe uses real cheese, creamy cream cheese, and the irresistible crunch of bacon. It's a simple upgrade that elevates a classic dish to something truly special. The best part? It's surprisingly quick and easy to make, even on the busiest of evenings. The prep time is minimal, and the oven does most of the work, leaving me free to tackle other tasks while the delicious aroma fills my kitchen.
I love using high-quality ingredients whenever possible. It really does make a difference in the taste, and I find that the Horizon Organic products are perfect for this recipe. The creamy cheese sauce base is enhanced by the richness of the cream cheese and cheddar cheese. And the bacon crumble adds that perfect salty and smoky counterpoint to the richness of the cheese. It's a balance of flavors and textures that my family absolutely adores.
This mac and cheese isn't just for weeknights, though. It's also perfect for potlucks, casual gatherings, or even a cozy night in. It's a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to disappear quickly. The golden-brown topping is so visually appealing, and the creamy, cheesy interior is simply irresistible. It's the kind of dish that brings people together, sparking conversations and creating warm memories around the dinner table.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, add your favorite vegetables (I sometimes sneak in some spinach or mushrooms), or change up the topping. The possibilities are endless! Ultimately, it’s about creating a dish that suits your taste and your lifestyle. For me, this mac and cheese represents more than just a meal; it's a symbol of comfort, ease, and the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones.
So, next time you're looking for a comforting, satisfying, and surprisingly easy meal, give this recipe a try. It’s the perfect antidote to a long day, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
- Use different types of bacon – try smoky bacon or even pancetta for a unique flavor.
- Add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even roasted butternut squash.
- If you don't have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs instead.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Enjoy!
