Loaded Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 6 ounces macaroni (uncooked)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (or bacon bits)
• 2 green onions

Instructions

1. In a pot of boiling, salted water, cook macaroni according to package directions for al dente pasta. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add flour and whisk to combine, creating a paste. Cook for 1 minute. Add milk and whisk constantly to combine. Continue cooking for about 1-2 minutes, or until mixture thickens slightly.
3. Reduce heat to low. Add salt, paprika, and pepper. Stir to combine. Add shredded cheese and stir until cheese is melted and fully incorporated. Remove from heat.
4. Add sour cream and stir to incorporate. Add drained macaroni and bacon pieces (optionally, reserve a small amount for topping) and stir to combine.
5. Rinse and dice green onions. Plate your macaroni and cheese. Top with green onions and any additional toppings you'd like - reserved bacon pieces, a dollop of sour cream, or more shredded cheddar cheese.