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–+ servings
Zucchini Bacon Mac and Cheese

Zucchini Bacon Mac and Cheese for Ultimate Summer Comfort

Zucchini Bacon Mac and Cheese combines crispy bacon and fresh zucchini in a creamy cheese sauce, elevating this comfort food to a new level.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil can use vegetable or canola oil
  • 2 cups Zucchini yellow squash can be used as a substitute
  • 2 cloves Garlic fresh garlic is recommended, but garlic powder works too
  • 8 ounces Elbow Pasta for a gluten-free option, use brown rice elbow pasta
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1 cup Half and Half substitute with whole milk or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese switch to mild cheddar for a smoother taste or use sharp for more intensity
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile
For the Topping
  • 4 slices Bacon for a lighter version, turkey bacon can be used

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 cups of sliced zucchini and 2 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 5–7 minutes until the zucchini is tender and lightly browned.
  2. In a separate large pot, bring water to a boil and cook 8 ounces of elbow pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Pour 1 cup of half and half into the pot where you cooked the pasta and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
  4. Reduce the heat to low, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring for about 2–3 minutes until melted.
  5. Mix in the cooked elbow pasta and sautéed zucchini, allowing to heat through for another 2 minutes.
  6. Fold in 4 slices of crumbled cooked bacon, stirring until evenly distributed.
  7. Spoon the Zucchini Bacon Mac and Cheese into bowls and garnish with reserved crispy bacon. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Don’t overcook the zucchini to maintain a slight crunch, and stir cheese constantly to avoid clumping. Rinse pasta with cold water after cooking to prevent sticking.

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