Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

In the world of comfort food, few dishes can rival the classic Mac and Cheese. This iconic recipe has been a staple in households for generations, cherished for its creamy texture and cheesy flavor. However, the traditional version can sometimes feel a bit one-dimensional. Enter Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Breadcrumbs—a creative twist that elevates this beloved dish to new heights. Imagine creamy cheeses enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, complemented by the earthy flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts and the satisfying crunch of savory bacon breadcrumbs. Not only does this dish deliver on taste, but it also packs a nutritional punch, making it a worthy addition to your dinner table.

Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs – The Original Dish

Elevate your comfort food game with this Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Breadcrumbs! Experience creamy, cheesy goodness paired with roasted Brussels sprouts for a delicious twist. Topped with crispy bacon breadcrumbs, this dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Discover easy cooking steps and ingredient insights that ensure a delightful meal every time. Get ready to impress your taste buds! #MacAndCheese #ComfortFood #BrusselsSprouts #Bacon #DeliciousRecipes #Foodie

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Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese:

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

3 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated

1 cup milk

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

For the Bacon Breadcrumbs:

4 slices bacon, chopped

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon butter

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Roast the Brussels Sprouts:

- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy on the edges. Stir halfway through cooking.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat just until warm. In another pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, and cayenne pepper. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.

- Gradually whisk in the warm milk and cream mixture, then cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

- Stir in the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, mixing until melted and smooth. Add in the cooked macaroni and roasted Brussels sprouts, stirring gently to combine. Transfer to a greased baking dish.

Prepare the Bacon Breadcrumbs:

- In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.

- In the same skillet, add the panko breadcrumbs, parsley, butter, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy. Stir in the cooked bacon.

Assemble and Bake:

- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Top the mac and cheese with the crispy bacon breadcrumbs and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Serve:

- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4