Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs Recipe

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 Prise salt
• 1 Prise pepper
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 0.5 tsp garlic powder
• 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 4 slices bacon, diced
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 Prise salt (for breadcrumbs)
• 1 Prise pepper (for breadcrumbs)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. On a baking sheet, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges. Stir halfway through for even cooking.
4. In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until bubbly. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and bubbles (5-7 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and both cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large bowl, mix the cooked macaroni, roasted Brussels sprouts, and cheese sauce until well combined. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
7. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and drain on paper towels. In the remaining grease, add 2 tablespoons of butter and the panko breadcrumbs. Cook, stirring frequently until the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy (about 3-4 minutes). Stir in the bacon and parsley, and season with salt and pepper.
8. Sprinkle the bacon breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese mixture. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your decadent Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs!