🥓 Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese with Crispy Bacon Crumble

📝 Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi
• 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
• 6 slices bacon (chopped)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp flour
• 2½ cups whole milk (warm)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1½ cups shredded smoked Gouda
• 1 cup shredded cheddar
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Topping (Optional):

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika

🔥 Instructions:

🍳 Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

🥓 Step 2: Fry the Bacon

1. In a skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Set aside.

🧀 Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
2. Gradually pour in the warm milk and cream while whisking to avoid lumps.
3. Cook for 4–5 minutes until thickened, then stir in Gouda, cheddar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir until smooth, melted, and glossy.

🍲 Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add cooked pasta and half the crispy bacon to the cheese sauce. Mix until fully coated.
2. Pour into a buttered baking dish if baking, or serve directly from the pot if stovetop-style.

🔥 Optional Step 5: Crunchy Top Finish

1. Mix panko, melted butter, and paprika. Sprinkle on top.
2. Broil on high for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.

🌟 Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish with remaining crispy bacon and chopped chives or parsley.
2. Serve hot — extra bacon on the side if you’re wild like that 🥓