Bacon Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese

[Krissycakes09]

Bacon Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

1 pound elbow macaroni

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound ground beef

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup chopped pickles (optional)

Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

Cook Pasta: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare Beef Mixture: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper.

Make Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until combined. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Bake: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, beef mixture, and cheese sauce. Stir in crumbled bacon. Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired.

Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve: Garnish with chopped pickles and fresh parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes