Skillet Mac and Cheese with Bacon and Apples
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 Gala apples, cored and chopped
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 cups small shells pasta
- 3-1/2 cups whole milk, divided
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1-1/2 cups shredded white Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Add bacon to large cast iron or other high-sided skillet and cook over medium-high heat 6 to 8 minutes or until crisp, stirring frequently. Use slotted spoon to transfer bacon to plate.
- Remove and discard all but 1 tablespoon bacon fat from skillet. Add apples and thyme to skillet and cook 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove and discard thyme sprigs and transfer apples to plate with bacon.
- Add pasta, 2 cups milk, salt and pepper to skillet. Heat to boiling over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook 4 minutes or until milk is reduced to a thick sauce, stirring constantly.
- Stir in remaining 1-1/2 cups milk and cook 10 minutes or until pasta is al dente and milk has reduced by half, stirring frequently.
- Turn off heat. Add cheese and stir until cheese is melted. Top with reserved bacon and apples and serve immediately.
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