Sides (Spinach & Bacon Mac 'n Cheese)

By chefbobby

Ingredients

• 3 cups uncooked bow-tie pasta (8 oz)
• 1/2 lb sliced bacon, coarsely chopped
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 1 small clove garlic, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (8 oz)
• 1 bag (6 oz) fresh baby spinach leaves, coarsely chopped

Preparation

Step 1

1) In 5-quart Dutch oven, cook and drain pasta as directed on package. Return to Dutch oven; cover to keep warm.

2) Meanwhile, in 10-inch skillet, cook bacon over medium heat 5 to 8 minutes, stirring often, until crisp; remove to paper towels. Drain, reserving 2 Tbsp drippings.

3) In 3-quart saucepan, heat butter and reserved bacon drippings over medium heat until butter is melted. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds or until fragrant. Stir in flour, salt and pepper with whisk until smooth. Stir in milk; heat to boiling. Stir in cheese until melted and sauce is smooth.

4) Pour cheese sauce over pasta; stir until coated. Stir in spinach. Reserve 1/4 cup of the bacon; stir remaining bacon into pasta mixture.

5) Divide pasta mixture among 6 serving bowls; garnish with reserved bacon.