Mushroom Mac & Cheese

This is another dish I've worked lup for Marx Foods using the mushrooms they were kind enough to send me. I think this is the best yet! It's even good cold and heats nicely in the microwave. Plus, it's simple, easy and QUICK.

• 6 oz. penne or shell pasta
• 6 slices pre-cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 Tbl. Olive Oil
• 2 Tbl. Flour
• 1 cup milk
• ¼ cup chopped mushrooms (I used MarxFoods' Morel Mushrooms)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (I use a Mexican blend)
• Salt & pepper to tastePanko crumbs
• French fried onions

Cook pasta according to package. In a 3 qt. saucepan, heat oil on med. Heat. Whisk in flour and cook about 30 seconds, whisking constantly. Gradually whisk in milk, add mushrooms and heat to a boil on medium-high heat. Stir in cheese and stir until cheese melts. Stir in pasta and bacon. Spoon into baking dish. Sprinkle with Panko and then French fried onions. (I do a thin layer of Panko and a thin layer over 1/2 of the dish with the French fried onions, just in case someone would rather not have them). Broil until starting to brown.

Changes – Use ham instead of bacon. Add a little cooked broccoli for added color, texture and taste. Change the cheese flavor by using Pepper Jack or Swiss.