Spinach – bacon macaroni and cheese

by Rachel Gillette

3 C. medium shell macaroni, uncooked
1 pkg. (6 oz.) fresh baby spinach leaves
4 slices bacon, chopped
2 Tbs. flour
2 C. milk
2 C. Shredded cheddar cheese
¼ C. grated Parmesan cheese

Heat oven to 350.

Cook Macaroni as directed on package, add spinach the last minute. Cook bacon in large saucepan. Remove bacon, save drippings in pan.
Add flour to drippings, cook and stir until bubbly. Gradually pour in milk. Bring to boil, stirring constantly; cook and stir 3-5 mins or until thinkened.
Stir in 1 C. cheddar cheese and parmesan; cook and stir until melted. add bacon and macaroni; mix well.
Pour into 1 ½ qt. casserole dish, top with remaining cheddar. Bake 20 minutes.


I left out the spinach this time and the kids thought it was the "real" macaroni and cheese, just with bacon, which they loved.