Mac and Cheese

Not only is Mac and Cheese a great "Comfort Food", it is a Southern Comfort Food" and it doesn't get any more comforting than that. This dish uses the traditional recipe with bacon and herbs added for additional flavor.

Serves 4

Ingredients:

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

3 slices bacon

2 tablespoons butter

3 tablespoons flour

1 cup evaporated milk

Kosher salt and fresh grated black pepper to taste

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons grated onion

1 1/2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

1/2 cup shredded mild Cheddar Cheese

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely minced

1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely minced

Instructions:

Cook macaroni in boiling water until al dente (with a little bite to it). Drain the cooking liquid and reserve about 2 cups. Fry bacon, remove to paper towel to drain. Drain off all but 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat and add 2 tablespoons butter to same pan. Add garlic and stir in flour. Slowly stir in evaporated milk and cooking liquid. Stir constantly, bring mixture to the boiling point, season with salt and pepper. Add Worcestershire sauce and onion. Add cheeses and continue to heat over low heat until cheese is melted. Add cooked macaroni and herbs, mix well. Top with bacon and serve.