Ingredients:
8 ounces (about 2 cups) of any pasta of your choice
6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Directions:
1.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
2.Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.Drain and reserve.
3.Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and beat continuously until golden brown and starting to smell nutty, about 1-2 minutes.
4.Pour in the milk little by little, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add 1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese until melted and sauce is smooth. Reserve remaining 1/2 cup cheese for garnish.6. Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper and paprika (if using). Adjust seasonings to taste.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon.8. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and bacon. Mix everything together until the pasta is well coated with the cheese sauce.
- Pour the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.10. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over top. 11. Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown. .
