Smoky Bacon Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 strips bacon, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Directions:

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
3. Add butter to the skillet with the bacon fat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture thickens.
5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season the cheese sauce with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Add the cooked macaroni and crispy bacon to the cheese sauce, stirring until well combined.
8. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
9. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!