Bacon Bombs Mac n Cheese

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 12 strips of cooked bacon, chopped
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits for topping (optional)

Directions:

  1. Cook the Macaroni:
    Boil a pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
    In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
    Stir in the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes until smooth.
    Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
    Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
  3. Combine and Add Bacon:
    Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
    Mix in the chopped cooked bacon.
  4. Shape the Bombs:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    Using your hands, scoop out a small portion of the mac and cheese mixture and shape it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
  5. Coat and Bake:
    Roll each mac and cheese ball in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to coat.
    Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, sprinkle with additional bacon bits.
  6. Bake:
    Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  7. Serve:
    Let the bacon bombs cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as a fun snack or side dish!