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Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

Irresistible Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs

This Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs is a comforting dish that blends creamy cheese with crunchy veggies.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Conchiglioni pasta This pasta shape holds the sauce beautifully.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Brussels sprouts Can substitute with broccoli or spinach.
  • 2 cups Kale Swiss chard can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 medium Red onion Enhances the dish with caramelized sweetness.
  • 3 stalks Scallions Can be replaced with chives or green onions.
For the Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Essential for a luxurious cheese sauce.
  • 1/4 cup Flour Acts as a thickening agent.
  • 2 cups Milk Almond or oat milk can be used for a non-dairy version.
  • 2 cups Cheddar cheese Opt for a mix of cheeses for added flavor.
  • 1 clove Garlic Optional but adds richness.
For the Flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Enhances flavors throughout the dish.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Ideal for sautéing vegetables.
For the Topping
  • 4 slices Bacon Can substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter version.
  • 2 tablespoons Chives Optional garnish.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • Food Processor
  • Skillet
  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Render Bacon: In a Dutch oven, cook diced bacon over medium-low heat for about 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden, stirring occasionally.
  2. Caramelize Onions: Using the same pot with the bacon fat, add sliced red onions and cook for 5-6 minutes until tender and caramelized, stirring in chopped scallions and kosher salt until fragrant.
  3. Sauté Vegetables: Drizzle olive oil into the pot and add halved Brussels sprouts, sautéing until browned (4-5 minutes), then remove and cook chopped kale until wilted (2-3 minutes).
  4. Prepare Breadcrumbs: Process cooked bacon and some bread into coarse crumbs, fry them in olive oil until golden and crisp.
  5. Cook Pasta: Bring large pot of salted water to boil and cook conchiglioni according to package instructions (10-12 minutes), drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.
  6. Make Cheese Sauce: Melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add warm milk, stirring until thickened. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
  7. Combine: Add drained pasta, sautéed Brussels sprouts and kale to the cheese sauce, folding together and adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed, season with salt.
  8. Serve: Dish out portions topped with crispy bacon breadcrumbs and fresh chives. Best enjoyed warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and adjust seasoning to taste.

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