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creamy baked carbonara mac and cheese copycat recipe

Creamy Baked Carbonara Mac and Cheese

When it comes to serving creamy baked carbonara mac and cheese, the choices are nearly endless. This cheesy dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner, lunch
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 7
Calories 373 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Bowl

Ingredients
  

  • ½ pound elbow macaroni pasta: This classic shape holds cheese incredibly well.
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into chunks: Adds richness and creates the base for the cheese sauce.
  • 4 tablespoons plain all-purpose flour: This thickens the sauce and gives it that creamy texture we all adore.
  • 2 cups whole milk preferably warm: Dairy magic that makes the sauce velvety.
  • 1 heaping cup shredded aged white cheddar: The star ingredient providing a tangy kick.
  • ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese: A nutty flavor to elevate the dish.
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring everything together.
  • 2 large eggs lightly whisked: Adds creaminess and helps bind the mixture.
  • 8 slices cooked bacon chopped and divided: For that smoky flavor and crunch.
  • cup thawed green peas frozen: A burst of color and a pop of freshness.
  • Flavor-Boosting Additions:
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard: A hint of depth without overpowering.
  • teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds warmth and enhances the richness.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s rolling, add your elbow macaroni and cook until al dente. The pasta will continue cooking later, so don’t overdo it. Drain it and set it aside while you whip up the cheese sauce.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

  • In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it’s bubbling, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about two minutes until it’s slightly golden. Gradually add your warm milk while whisking. This is where you should feel like a master chef. As the sauce thickens, add in the white cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Everything

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked pasta, cheese sauce, and the lightly whisked eggs. Toss in the chopped bacon and peas. Here’s the fun part: mix it all until everything is coated in creamy goodness.

Step 4: Bake

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle some extra white cheddar on top. I mean, who doesn’t love a cheesy crust? Bake for about 25-30 minutes until it's bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  • Let it cool for a few minutes. Trust me; the anticipation is part of the fun. Scoop generous servings onto plates, and prepare for a cheesy embrace you won’t forget anytime soon!

Notes

  • Pasta: Elbow macaroni’s curly shape catches the creamy sauce and cheese, making every bite delightful.
  • Unsalted Butter: Control the salt levels. You can’t go wrong with butter; it adds creaminess.
  • Flour: Ensures a silky sauce. Just whisk it in gradually.
  • Whole Milk: The warmer, the better! This helps the sauce meld beautifully.
  • Aged White Cheddar: A secret ingredient to richness. Fresh, it takes the dish to a whole new height.
  • Parmesan: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor, enhancing the depth of the dish.
  • Bacon: The crispy salty bits complement the creamy texture and flavor.
  • Green Peas: Great source of fiber. They contribute color and a sweet crunch.

Nutrition

Serving: 193gCalories: 373kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 13gFat: 33gSaturated Fat: 5.8gCholesterol: 74mgSodium: 1054mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6g
Keyword Creamy Baked Carbonara Mac and Cheese
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