2tablespoonsbourbonJack Daniel's Whiskey, or other
2 ½cupsmilk
½cupheavy cream
½teaspoonsalt and peppereach, to taste
¼teaspooncayenne pepperoptional, to taste
2cupscheddar cheeseshredded, divided
1 ½cupsgouda cheeseshredded
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Cook macaroni noodles in a pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Set aside.
In an oven safe skillet, fry bacon. Remove to a plate lined with paper towels. Reserve 3 tablespoons of bacon fat. Over medium heat, whisk in flour to create the roux. Brown for 1 minute.
Add bourbon, whisking until incorporated. Slowly whisk in milk, ½ cup at a time. Once fully incorporated, add heavy cream. Simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened.
Remove from heat. Add gouda, and 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese. Stir until melted. Taste, and add salt and pepper. Stir in bacon, add macaroni noodles. Top with remaining cheddar cheese.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, uncovered, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.