Made with beer and bacon, this mac ’n’ cheese recipe is a tasty twist on the classic. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side or simply on its own, it’s the perfect comfort food.
Serves66
Cook time40 mins40 minutes
Prep time15 mins15 minutes
Ingredients
250g macaroni or pasta elbows
6 short-cut bacon rashers, finely chopped
50g butter
1/4 cup (35g) plain flour
1 tsp mustard powder
1 1/2 cups (375ml) milk
1/2 cup (125ml) pale ale or beef stock
1 1/2 cups (180g) Coles Australian Shredded Tasty Cheddar
1/4 cup finely chopped chives
3 thick slices Coles Bakery Stone Baked by Laurent Sourdough Vienna, crusts removed, torn
2 tbs olive oil
20 sage leaves
Check ingredient labels to make sure they meet your specific dietary requirements and always consult a health professional before changing your diet. View dietary information here.
Percentage Daily Intake information on our recipes is calculated using the nutrition reference values for an average Australian adult.
Method
Step 1
Preheat oven to 200°C. Cook the pasta in a large saucepan of boiling water following packet directions or until al dente. Drain well.
Step 2
Heat a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook, stirring, for 3 mins or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a heatproof bowl. Add butter to the pan. Cook for 1 min or until butter melts. Add flour and mustard powder. Cook, stirring, for 1 min or until mixture bubbles and is grainy. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until combined. Cook, stirring, for 2 mins or until mixture comes to the boil. Add the beer or stock and cook, whisking, for 3-4 mins or until the sauce boils and thickens. Season. Remove from heat. Stir in 1 cup (120g) cheddar. Stir in the bacon, chives and pasta. Season.
Step 3
Transfer the pasta mixture to a 6-cup (1.5L) ovenproof dish. Sprinkle with the remaining cheddar. Bake for 15 mins or until golden brown.
Step 4
Meanwhile, line a baking tray with baking paper. Arrange the bread pieces in a single layer on the lined tray. Spray with olive oil spray. Bake for 8-10 mins or until golden.
Step 5
While the pasta mixture is baking, heat oil in a small frying pan over medium heat. Add the sage and cook, turning, for 1-2 mins or until crisp. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towel.
Step 6
Top the pasta mixture with the bread pieces and fried sage to serve.
