Pesto Mac ‘n Cheese

Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add a big handful of salt then add macaroni. Cook as directed on the package until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.

Step 2: Meanwhile, add the bacon to a large skillet over medium heat. Once the bacon starts cooking, cook on one side for a few minutes until crispy then flip and finish cooking the other side. Remove the bacon and place on a plate lined with a paper towel; pat off as much grease as you can. When cool enough to handle, crumble bacon. Leave the bacon drippings in the skillet.

Step 3: Add the onion to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes or until softened.

Step 4: Stir in the flour to coat and cook 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk. Bring to a boil and cook until it starts to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Whisk in the gouda, cheddar, pesto, and salt until melted. If the sauce is too thick, stir in some milk to thin it out.

Step 6: Once everything is ready, mix together the cooked pasta and the sauce.