Whiskey Macaroni and Cheese

Submitted by Debbie R.

"Rich macaroni and cheese with whiskey and bacon. The bacon is optional. It is great even without it; just add a little salt at the table."

 

• Ready In: 30mins
• Ingredients: 15
• Serves: 4

ingredients

• 12 ounces hickory smoked bacon
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1⁄4 cup Wondra Flour
• 1⁄2 cup whiskey (Jack Daniels or Irish)
• 1⁄2 cup chicken broth
• 1⁄2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon dried ancho chile powder
• 1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1⁄2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups low-fat milk
• 4 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 ounces provolone cheese
• 2 ounces asiago cheese
• 8 ounces dry elbow macaroni

directions

1. Cook pasta in boiling water about 7 minutes; set aside. Do not overcook, and do not rinse.
2. While it's cooking, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat, until it is crisp. Remove from pan. Pour out all but two tablespoons of the drippings (leave the two tablespoons in the pan). Wipe outer side of pan if grease is on it from pouring off the rest of the grease. Crumble bacon and set aside.
3. While bacon cooks: (1) shred cheeses and (2) in a large measuring cup, combine chicken broth, whiskey, spices and Worcestershire sauce.
4. In skillet with bacon fat, add the butter and melt it. Add flour; whisk to combine. Add chicken broth mixture; whisk. Let bubble for 2 - 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to pick up fond on the bottom of the pan. Add milk; combine. Let come to a bubble or at least get very hot and add cheeses. Stir until it's melted and smooth. All of this stuff can burn easily; watch it.
5. Add pasta and bacon to sauce; stir. Cook pasta in sauce for 5 minutes over medium heat, stirring. It's done when the sauce is thickened.