Bacon and Herbs Mac ‘n’ Cheese
Photo: James Baigrie; Randy Mon
Total Time 30 mins
AuthorKathleen Hart, Napa

Fresh herbs, bacon, and a trio of flavorful cheeses–cream cheese, brie, and cheddar–adds sophisticated flavors to traditional macaroni and cheese.

How to Make It

Step 1
1

Preheat oven to broil. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain.

Step 2
2

Meanwhile, fry bacon until crisp, about 5 minutes, then drain on paper towels, reserving 1 tbsp. grease. Set bacon aside.

Step 3
3

In the warm pasta pot, mix reserved grease, 2 tbsp. butter, the herbs, onions, garlic, and soft cheeses. Mix in warm pasta and bacon. Spoon into 4 ramekins (1 1/2-cup size); sprinkle with cheddar cheese.

Step 4
4

In a small bowl, combine remaining 1 tbsp. butter and the bread crumbs, stirring to combine. Sprinkle evenly over cheese.

Step 5
5

Broil ramekins until golden and bubbling, about 3 minutes.

Step 6
6

Note: Nutritional analysis is per serving.

Ingredients

 12 ounces elbow macaroni
 3 strips bacon (about 2.5 oz.), chopped
 3 tablespoons melted butter, divided
 1/4 cup chopped mixed fresh herbs such as tarragon, parsley, chives, and/or rosemary
 1/4 cup chopped green onions
 2 garlic cloves, minced
 1/2 cup brie cheese, cut into chunks
 1/2 cup cream cheese, cut into chunks
 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
 1/2 cup plain dried bread crumbs

Directions

Step 1
1

Preheat oven to broil. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain.

Step 2
2

Meanwhile, fry bacon until crisp, about 5 minutes, then drain on paper towels, reserving 1 tbsp. grease. Set bacon aside.

Step 3
3

In the warm pasta pot, mix reserved grease, 2 tbsp. butter, the herbs, onions, garlic, and soft cheeses. Mix in warm pasta and bacon. Spoon into 4 ramekins (1 1/2-cup size); sprinkle with cheddar cheese.

Step 4
4

In a small bowl, combine remaining 1 tbsp. butter and the bread crumbs, stirring to combine. Sprinkle evenly over cheese.

Step 5
5

Broil ramekins until golden and bubbling, about 3 minutes.

Step 6
6

Note: Nutritional analysis is per serving.

Bacon and Herbs Mac ‘n’ Cheese

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