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Mac and Cheese with Kimchi and Bacon #makeitwithMILK #FWCon

Kimchi and bacon brings big Korean flavors to the classic mac and cheese.
Course: Main
Cuisine: Korean
Author: Amy Kim | kimchi MOM

Ingredients

  • For the Topping:
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 2 cups panko bread crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • For the Mac:
  • 6 ounces thick cut bacon diced (about 4 slices)
  • 1 cup cabbage kimchi drained and chopped
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced crosswise
  • 1 Korean chili pepper finely chopped (you can substitute jalapeno peppers)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 10-12 ounces grated mild Cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 pound pipette rigate or any short pasta

Instructions

  • In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the garlic, butter, bread crumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Set aside.
  • Heat a medium-size saucepan over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until edges are browned and crisped. With a slotted spoon remove the bacon and drain on a plate lined with a paper towel. Spoon out any excess bacon fat and save.
  • To the same saucepan, add the kimchi, green onions, and pepper. Cook until the kimchi is caramelized, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  • Add the reserved bacon fat (about 4 tablespoons). Whisk in the flour and cook for about 3 minutes. Gradually add in the milk, a 1/4 cup at a time, whisking in between.Let simmer, stirring periodically, for about 5-6 minutes until thickened.
  • Take off heat, whisk in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Add the kimchi mixture and bacon. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
  • Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil over high heat Cook according to package directions minus 1 minute. Drain and return to the pot.
  • Add the cheese sauce and gently stir to combine. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9x13 pan . Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture evenly on top. Bake until the top is golden, about 15-20 minutes. Serve immediately.