BLT Mac and Cheese

Health score
23%
BLT Mac and Cheese
65 min.
10
608kcal

Suggestions


Indulge in a delightful twist on a classic comfort food with our BLT Mac and Cheese! This mouthwatering dish combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional macaroni and cheese with the savory flavors of a classic BLT sandwich. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy lunch, this recipe serves up to 10 people, making it an ideal choice for sharing with friends and loved ones.

Imagine the rich, velvety cheese sauce enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, complemented by the freshness of cherry tomatoes and vibrant spinach. And let’s not forget the star of the show: crispy, crumbled bacon that adds a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor. Topped with golden, crispy panko breadcrumbs, this dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a standout on any table.

Ready in just 65 minutes, this BLT Mac and Cheese is a fantastic option for those who want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or making it the main attraction, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of cheesy goodness that brings together the best of both worlds!

Ingredients

  • loaf cheese cut into large cubes (32 oz. box)
  • 0.3 cup butter 
  • cups milk whole
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni 
  • oz sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • cups cherry tomatoes 
  • oz pkt spinach fresh
  • lb bacon crumbled cooked
  • cup panko bread crumbs plain crispy italian-style

Equipment

  • bowl
  • oven
  • whisk
  • aluminum foil
  • microwave
  • glass baking pan

Directions

  1. In large microwavable bowl, place cheese cubes, butter and milk. Microwave uncovered on High 8 to 10 minutes. Stir with whisk; microwave on High 4 minutes longer. Stir again; repeat microwaving until all cheese is melted and mixture can be stirred smooth, a total of about 15 minutes.
  2. Heat oven to 350°F. Cook macaroni in boiling salted water 3 minutes less than directed on box (macaroni should be firm).
  3. Drain; place in 15x10-inch (4-quart) glass baking dish.
  4. Pour melted cheese sauce over macaroni; mix well. Stir in shredded cheese, tomatoes and spinach.
  5. Cover dish with foil; bake 30 minutes. Uncover; sprinkle bacon and bread crumbs evenly over top.
  6. Bake 5 minutes longer or until top is lightly browned. Cool at least 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories608kcal
Protein20.96%
Fat48.45%
Carbs30.59%

Properties

Glycemic Index
17.4
Glycemic Load
2
Inflammation Score
-9
Nutrition Score
29.072608657505%

Flavonoids

Luteolin
0.19mg
Kaempferol
1.63mg
Myricetin
0.09mg
Quercetin
1.22mg

Nutrients percent of daily need

Calories:607.69kcal
30.38%
Fat:32.53g
50.04%
Saturated Fat:14.77g
92.3%
Carbohydrates:46.2g
15.4%
Net Carbohydrates:43.71g
15.89%
Sugar:7.21g
8.01%
Cholesterol:91.6mg
30.53%
Sodium:1054.67mg
45.86%
Alcohol:0g
100%
Alcohol %:0%
100%
Protein:31.66g
63.33%
Vitamin K:125.75µg
119.76%
Selenium:61.94µg
88.48%
Vitamin A:3083.19IU
61.66%
Phosphorus:496.74mg
49.67%
Manganese:0.75mg
37.37%
Calcium:336.49mg
33.65%
Vitamin B3:6.39mg
31.96%
Vitamin B1:0.44mg
29.67%
Vitamin B2:0.45mg
26.38%
Zinc:3.53mg
23.55%
Vitamin B6:0.46mg
23.15%
Vitamin B12:1.29µg
21.56%
Magnesium:81.5mg
20.37%
Potassium:711.89mg
20.34%
Folate:72.91µg
18.23%
Vitamin C:13.96mg
16.93%
Copper:0.26mg
12.9%
Vitamin B5:1.25mg
12.55%
Iron:2.24mg
12.46%
Fiber:2.49g
9.97%
Vitamin D:1.39µg
9.28%
Vitamin E:1.28mg
8.54%