Mac & Cheese (Ziti with Bacon)

By á-3326

Ingredients

• 1 package (16oz) ziti or small tube pasta
• 3 cups (24oz) 4% cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon butter (divided)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
• 3 cups half and half
• 1 cup milk
• 4 cups (16oz) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon, divided
• 1/3 cup dry bread crumbs

Preparation

Step 1

Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile place cottage cheese in a food processor, cover and process until smooth. Set aside.

In a large saucepan melt 1/2 cup butter. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper and garlic salt until smooth. Gradually add cream and milk. Bring to a boil, cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.

Drain macaroni, transfer to a large bowl. Add the cheddar cheese, cottage cheese, white sauce and 3/4 cup bacon; toss to coat. Transfer to a greased 13x9 baking dish. (Dish will be full). Melt remaining butter. Add bread crumbs, toss to coat. Sprinkle over casserole.

Bake uncovered at 400 egrees for 20 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining bacon. Bake 5 minutes longer or until bubbly.