Ingredients

The following ingredients have 4 Servings
  • 1 lb macaroni
  • 1/2 cup plus 2 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 4 cups milk
  • 3 cups shredded applewood smoked gouda (3/4 lb)
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar (3/4 lb)
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled up

Instruction

  • Preheat oven to 400°F. Add bacon to parchment-lined sheet and bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool before crumbling up.
  • To make breadcrumb topping, melt 2 tbsp butter in small pan over low heat. Once melted, add panko, garlic and 1/2 cup Parmesan and toss to combine. Set aside.
  • In large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 1/2 cup butter. Stir in flour and black pepper. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until well combined. Gradually add milk and cook until the mixture is smooth and bubbly, about 10 minutes. You'll want to stir constantly.
  • While making sauce, cook macaroni according to package and set aside.
  • Remove sauce from heat and gradually add gouda, cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese and the bacon. Stir in until cheese is melted. Add pasta and mix until everything is coated. Pour into a 9x13 greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumb mixture. 
  • Put under broiler until the mixture bubbles and top is browned. Should be about 1 to 2 minutes. You can't leave unattended or it will burn. Remove from broiler and let rest for 5 minutes.