Half Pan Drunken Mac Recipe
Cavatappi Pasta, Our Signature Cheese Sauce, Bacon, and Seasoned Bread Crumbs
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Ingredients
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Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Toppings
Method
Pasta Preparation
- 1
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 2
Drain the Pasta
Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside in a large mixing bowl.
Cheese Sauce Preparation
- 3
Melt Butter
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
- 4
Make Roux
Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden, creating a roux.
- 5
Add Milk
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- 6
Add Cheeses
Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- 7
Season the Sauce
Season the cheese sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Assembly
- 8
Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked cavatappi pasta and mix well until all pasta is coated.
- 9
Add Bacon
Crumble the cooked bacon and add it to the pasta mixture, stirring to combine.
- 10
Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a half pan or a baking dish. Spread evenly.
- 11
Add Toppings
Sprinkle the seasoned bread crumbs evenly over the top of the pasta mixture.
- 12
Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.