FREEBIE FAIRY'S RECIPE OF THE DAY 01/20/12

BLT Mac ‘n' Cheese

Prep Time: 30 Min

Total Time: 1 Hr 5 Min

Makes: 10 servings

INGREDIENTS

1

 loaf (32 oz) prepared cheese product, cut into large cubes

1/4

 cup butter

5

 cups whole milk

1

 package (16 oz) elbow macaroni

2

 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (8 oz)

2

 cups small cherry tomatoes

1

 bag (9 oz) fresh spinach

1

 lb bacon, crisply cooked, crumbled

1

 cup Progresso® plain or Italian-style panko crispy bread crumbs

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). Drain; place in 15x10-inch (4-quart) glass baking dish. Pour melted cheese sauce over macaroni; mix well. Stir in shredded cheese, tomatoes and spinach.3. Cover dish with foil; bake 30 minutes. Uncover; sprinkle bacon and bread crumbs evenly over top. Bake 5 minutes longer or until top is lightly browned. Cool at least 10 minutes before serving.

A little chopped sautéed onion can be added for variety along with a little ground mustard.

The cheese sauce can also be melted in a saucepan on the stove in place of the microwave.