When it comes to comfort food, macaroni and cheese often takes center stage. It’s a dish synonymous with warmth, nostalgia, and culinary delight.
But what if we could elevate this classic dish to new heights, infusing it with gourmet flavors and a touch of sophistication?
Enter the Creamy Bacon & Feta Macaroni with a Bold Cheddar-Parmesan Kick—a dish that promises not just comfort, but an unforgettable taste experience.
A Symphony of Flavors
Imagine the creamy richness of perfectly cooked macaroni enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce.
Now, add the savory crunch of bacon, the tangy depth of feta cheese, and the sharp, bold notes of cheddar and Parmesan.
This isn’t just mac and cheese, it’s a symphony of flavors that come together to create a truly decadent dish.
The combination of bacon and feta introduces a delightful contrast of salty and tangy flavors.
Bacon, with its smoky, savory goodness, complements the creamy sauce, while feta adds a distinctive tang that cuts through the richness.
Together, they provide a balance that excites the palate with every bite.
The Cheese Factor
The use of Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar Cheese, with its semi-hard sharp cheddar cheese and notes of Parmesan flavor, adds a gourmet touch to this dish.
The sharpness of the cheddar pairs beautifully with the tangy feta, with the notes of Parmesan adding a nutty undertone, enhancing the overall taste experience.
It’s an ideal meal for cozy family dinners, a crowd-pleasing dish for potlucks, or a delightful indulgence for a quiet night in.
This Creamy Bacon & Feta Macaroni with a Bold Cheddar-Parmesan Kick is more than just a meal, it’s an experience.
It’s a dish that marries the comfort of the familiar with the excitement of the novel, promising satisfaction and delight.
Whether you’re a mac and cheese purist or an adventurous food lover, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Enjoy the journey of flavors and the joy of sharing this delightful dish with family and friends.
Creamy Bacon And Feta Macaroni With A Bold Cheddar-Parmesan Kick
4 slices bacon, chopped
4 cups water or chicken broth
16 ounces pasta *See Cook’s Note
2 cups Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar Cheese, shredded
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 cup evaporated milk
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 teaspoons granulated garlic
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon Aleppo pepper
1 teaspoon salt
Cook’s Notes
You can opt to use elbow macaroni. This recipe though, used a mix of Campanella, Orecchiette, and Gemelli (about 1/3 cup each).
The mix of pastas should equal 2 cups or 450 grams.
Turn on the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
Add the pasta to the pot. Pour in the water or chicken broth, ensuring the pasta is submerged. Add 1 teaspoon salt.
Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 4 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, do a quick release of the pressure.
Carefully open the lid and stir the pasta. Add the butter, cheese, and evaporated milk. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Add the granulated garlic, onion powder, Aleppo pepper and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Stir in the cooked bacon. Serve the macaroni and cheese hot, garnished with additional crumbled feta, chopped bacon, and chopped green onion (optional).
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables, offering a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness.
For more Instant Pot recipes, type – Instant Pot – in the Search box below and click Search.
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