Potluck Bacon Mac & Cheese

Name: Potluck Bacon Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings.
Ingredients: 1 pound bacon strips, chopped; 1 package (16 ounces) elbow macaroni; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 1/2 paprika, optional; 2 cans (12 ounces each) evaporated milk; 2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth; 8 ounces process cheese (Velveeta), cubed; 2 cups Kerrygold shredded cheddar cheese

This wholesome mac & cheese is slow-cooker easy. Make it during the week or take it to your next potluck!—Kelly Silvers, Edmond, Oklahoma

Ingredients

1 pound bacon strips, chopped
1 package (16 ounces) elbow macaroni
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1/2 paprika, optional
2 cans (12 ounces each) evaporated milk
2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
8 ounces process cheese (Velveeta), cubed
2 cups Kerrygold shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

Fold two 18-in.-long pieces of foil into two 18x4-in. strips. Line perimeter of a 4-qt. slow cooker with foil strips; spray with cooking spray.
In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp, stirring occasionally. Remove with a slotted spoon; drain on paper towels, reserving drippings. In same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons bacon drippings over medium heat; cook pasta in drippings 2 minutes or until edges turn translucent. Transfer to slow cooker.
In same skillet, heat 1/4 cup bacon drippings over medium heat. Add flour, garlic powder, onion powder and, if desired, paprika. Cook and stir 1-2 minutes or until flour begins to turn pale golden brown. Gradually whisk in milk and broth. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly; cook and stir 1-2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in cheeses; transfer to slow cooker. Stir in pasta. Cook, covered, on low 2-3 hours or until pasta is tender. Top with bacon.