Bacon Scallion Pepper Jack Macaroni and Cheese

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheese lowers calories while processed cheese is often less expensive.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil provides healthier fats while margarine is a budget-friendly alternative.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water + cornstarch

Almond milk is lower in calories, and a cornstarch mixture can mimic creaminess.

elbow macaroni

🥗Healthier: whole wheat pasta

💰Cheaper: generic pasta

Whole wheat pasta adds fiber while generic options are often cheaper.

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

In a large cast iron pot, add 1 pound of al dente cooked pasta.

Add 12 oz of cubed pepper jack cheese and 12 oz of grated extra sharp cheddar cheese to the pot.

Add 1 and 1/4 cups of chopped sweet onions, 3/4 cup of chopped scallions (white and green parts), and 1/4 cup of chopped jalapenos (seeds removed) that have been sautéed briefly in 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings.

Add 1 pound of chopped cooked applewood smoked bacon to the mixture.

Toss all ingredients together to evenly distribute pasta, cheese, aromatics, and bacon, then set aside.

In a separate large bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1 and 1/2 teaspoons of dry mustard, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of fresh grated nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.

Whisk the dry ingredients together, then add 3/4 cup of sour cream and 2 beaten eggs, whisking until a paste forms.

Add 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 and 1/2 cups of heavy cream, and 1 and 1/2 cups of half and half to the mixture and stir until blended.

Pour the cream sauce evenly over the macaroni and cheese mixture in the pot.

Top with 4 oz of shredded Parmesan cheese.

Place the bacon macaroni and cheese in the oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until bubbling and golden brown.

Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens