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Jazzed Up Macaroni And Cheese

A slight twist on the traditional cheesy American comfort food - A smoky flavor added by bacon bits and a hearty flavor added by mushrooms make this a perfect food on a cool night.

Ingredients

  • ¼ med. onion - chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic - chopped
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 2 cups macaroni or other pasta
  • 1 cup mushroom - sliced thinly
  • 1 cup half and half cream or whole milk
  • 2 tsp flour
  • 1 tsp pepper
  • ½ to ¾ cup cheese - usually mix of two types (diced)
  • 2 tsp parsley
  • ¾ cup Bread crumbs - store bought or homemade - see "Homemade Breadcrumb" recipe)
  • 3 slices bacon - optional
  • 1 tsp paprika - for garnishing - optional

Directions

  1. Cook bacon in oven until crispy
  2. Once cooked, slice bacon into small pieces to be mixed into pasta later.
  3. Boil pasta until al-dente.
  4. Fry onion and garlic in oil and butter until slightly browned.
  5. Add mushroom and fry until fragrant.
  6. Add pepper to taste.
  7. Add flour.
  8. Add milk and stir well to ensure no lumps.
  9. Let simmer until mix thickens slightly.
  10. Add cheese and stir until cheese melts.
  11. Add cooked pasta and mix well.
  12. Add crispy chopped bacon and parsley to the mix.
  13. Top with paprika if desired.
  14. If desired, may serve as is with side of roasted chicken (see roasted chicken recipe), or may place pasta in oven-safe dish and top with bread crumbs and parmesan cheese and bake for 15-20 mins at 350°F.

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