Smokey Whole Wheat Mac n' Cheese

Buck and I have been trying to lean back onto the healthier side of life, but it's so hard because we love all the foods that are traditionally bad for our health. We decided to compromise and keep our favourite foods but make adjustments to them to make them a little bit healthier. 

This recipe helps to treat the Mac n' Cheese crave, but adds some colour and fibre to the mix. 

You will need:

• Half a box of whole wheat macaroni
• 1 tbsp margarine
• 1 cup of shredded Gouda cheese
• 1/3 cup of 2% milk
• 2 slices of smoked bacon, cooked and chopped
• 1 cup of sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup of broccoli florets
• As much spinach as you wish
• Fresh cracked black pepper, i prefer a lot

Here's what to do:

1. Cook pasta according to box instructions. When finished, set aside. 
2. While pasta is cooking, slice bacon into little strips and in a frying on medium heat. Let cook for 5 minutes. 
3. Add broccoli and mushrooms to fry with bacon. 
4. When broccoli becomes soft, turn down heat to low. 
5. By this time, pasta should be cooked (wait for it to be completely soft). Drain pasta in sink and toss pasta with margarine.
6. Add pasta, spinach, and milk to frying pan. Stir on medium for 3-4 minutes, or until milk thickens.
7. Add Gouda and black pepper, stir together until all cheese is melted and covering all pasta. 
8. Serve and enjoy!