Bacon Swiss Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 lb whole wheat penne
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 1/2 cups low-fat buttermilk
• 1/4 cup chicken broth, low sodium
• 2 tablespoons whole wheat flour
• 1 1/2 cups low-fat swiss cheese
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 slices turkey bacon, chopped

Directions

1. 1

   1. In a large pot boil salted water and cook pasta for 8 minutes then drain and set aside.

2. 2

   2. In a bowl mix the milk, broth and flour and whisk until flour is dissolved. Then pour the milk mixture, garlic powder, basil, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper into a sauce pan sprayed with cooking spray and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until milk begins to thicken. Then add the swiss cheese, and parmesan cheese and continue to stir until cheese is melted (around 3 minutes).

3. 3

   3. In a small pan sprayed with cooking spray cook the bacon pieces over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until crispy. Then set bacon aside on a plate lined with a paper towel.

4. 4

   4. Combine the pasta and cheese sauce and toss well. Then top with bacon pieces and serve.