Bacon, Mac, and Cheese

Don't get me wrong, I love Kraft Mac 'n Cheese.. but now and then it'd be nice to get a big bowl of "goodness" with good flavor and cheese that isn't florescent orange powder. I've seen mac 'n cheese with truffles, lobster, pork belly.. all amazing stuff but not something you can do on a budget or a Thursday night. I decided to keep it simple, just add some good quality bacon and green onions. It was creamy, cheesy, and full of "goodness". Enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 tbsp flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 pieces thick-cut bacon, cut into small chunks
• 16 oz grated cheese (sharp cheddar, gruyere, colby, whatever you like)
• salt & fresh ground pepper
• 16 oz pasta (macaroni, gemelli, cavatappi, etc)
• 2 scallions, cut diagonally into small pieces

1. Add the bacon pieces to a skillet over medium heat. Cook for 8-10 minutes until crispy.
2. Make a bechamel sauce: in a large sauce pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until it is bubbling and well incorporated. Slowly add the milk and continue to stir for 5+ minutes until the sauce is thickened. Add the grated cheese and stir until it's melted and gooey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Meanwhile, bring a large pan of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook 7-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the water and return the pasta to the pan. Add the cheese sauce, bacon, and onions. Stir until well combined.

Serves: 6
WW: 20 pts