Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with a delicious twist on a classic favorite! Our BLT Baked Mac and Cheese combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the savory crunch of a traditional BLT. Imagine digging into a bubbling, golden dish that's not only rich and satisfying but also packed with crispy bacon, fresh cherry tomatoes, and a hint of lettuce for that perfect crunch. This dish is sure to impress family and friends alike, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Ready to discover how to whip up this mouthwatering masterpiece? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup lettuce, chopped
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta and set aside.
- While pasta is cooking, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown. Remove bacon, drain on paper towels, and crumble into small pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and halved cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper, mixing gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top to create a crispy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and cheese is bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Top with freshly chopped lettuce just before serving to maintain its crispness.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional bacon crumbles or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook your macaroni just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This ensures your pasta maintains the perfect texture.
- Use Quality Cheese: Opt for a blend of cheeses like sharp cheddar and mozzarella for a rich flavor and gooey texture. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!
- Crispy Bacon: For the best flavor, cook your bacon until it’s crispy. This adds a delightful crunch to your mac and cheese and enhances the overall taste.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cherry tomatoes and crisp lettuce to keep the dish vibrant and flavorful. Adding them just before serving preserves their texture.
- Breadcrumb Topping: For an extra crispy topping, consider mixing your breadcrumbs with a little melted butter or olive oil before sprinkling them on top.
- Let It Rest: Allow the baked mac and cheese to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the dish set and makes for easier portioning.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to garnish with additional bacon crumbles or fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 529kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 70mg
