Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon

1 lb. cavatappi pasta
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (reserve 2 Tbsp. bacon grease)
1 Tbsp. butter
3 Tbsp. flour
2 C. milk
One small onion, minced
Ground black pepper to taste
1/4 tsp. chipotle chili pepper (found in the spice aisle)
2 C. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 C. Mozzarella cheese, shredded

Prepare pasta until al dente.

Meanwhile in a medium-sized saucepan, fry bacon until crisp.  Drain grease, reserving two tablespoons to use to saute onions.   Saute onions in bacon grease for a minute or two until softened.  Add butter and melt.  Add flour, and mix until well-combined and flour starts to turn golden brown.  Add milk, black pepper, and chipotle chili pepper.  Add cheeses and stir until melted.  If sauce becomes too thick, thin with more milk.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.   Bake pasta for 35-40 minutes, covered.  Remove foil and continue baking until golden brown.

Other Variations on Mac and Cheese:

• Black and Blue Mac and Cheese
• Beecher’s World Famous Mac and Cheese
• Spam and Cheese Casserole