Mac & cheese has always been Lily’s favorite. Since she was tiny, it has been the one dish that never fails to bring her comfort and joy. Over the years, the noodles have changed shape, the cheese has grown sharper, and we have added a little heat and smokiness, but one thing has stayed the same: when we are celebrating Lily, there is mac & cheese on the table.

It is our tradition. First day of school, last day of school, birthdays, performances, report cards, proud moments both big and small it is the dish I make when we say, Well done, Lily. I dish hers up first, before adding anything else to the pot. Her bowl is always a little simpler, just the way she likes it. Creamy, cheesy, no fuss. Chad and I’s usually comes with a little kick.

Today, I made it for her sixteenth birthday and the last day of her freshman year. We were laughing in the kitchen, and I asked her what she wanted for her birthday. She grinned and said, “No school for a while.” I smiled back and said, “birthday wish granted.”

Some things really do get better with time—like mac & cheese and watching your girl grow up.

Bacon Jalapeno Mac & Cheese

What You Will Need:

• 2 to 4 slices bacon
• 1/8 to 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, drained and finely chopped
• 1/2 pound (8 ounces) of your favorite pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese (Cabot Seriously Sharp recommended)

What You Will Need To Do:

1. Cook the Bacon
   Preheat the oven to 400°F. Arrange the bacon on a baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, then chop into small pieces.
   
2. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 1/2 pound (8 ounces) of your favorite pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
   
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
   In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Slowly add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Season with salt, pepper, and dry mustard. Continue to whisk until the mixture begins to bubble and thicken, 3–4 minutes.
   
4. Add the Cheese
   Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded white cheddar until fully melted and smooth.
   
5. Assemble
   Add the pasta and stir to coat in the cheese sauce. Then fold in the chopped bacon and jalapeños.
   
6. Serve
   Serve warm and celebrate something—or someone—you love. Serves 4.

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How do you mac & cheese?

Gracefully yours,

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