Smoky, Creamy Mac & Cheese

By ccavaletti

Ingredients

• 2 c. uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1/4 c. butter, cubed
• 1/4 c. all-purpose flour
• 2 c. 2% milk
• 1 tub (8 oz.) chive & onion cream cheese spread
• 4 oz. velveeta cheese product, cut into 1/2" cubes
• 1 c. (4 oz.) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 5 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/8 tsp. pepper
• 1/3 c. panko bread crumbs
• 2 tbsp. butter, melted

Preparation

Step 1

1. Cook macaroni according to pkg directions. In a large saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour until smooth; gradually add milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 1-2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in the cream cheese, velveeta, cheddar cheese, bacon, salt, and pepper.
2. Drain macaroni; stir in cheese sauce. Transfer to a greased 8" square baking dish. Combine bread crumbs and melted butter; sprinkle over casserole. Bake at 350F for 25-30 min or until bubbly.