Mac 'N' Cheese

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a large baking dish. Place on a baking tray. Cook pasta in boiling salted water for 10 mins, or until tender. Drain.
2. 2
   Meanwhile, stud whole onion with cloves. Place in a heavy-bottomed saucepan and cover with milk. Bring to a simmer then remove from heat. Discard onion and reserve milk.
3. 3
   Wipe pan clean. Melt 5 1/2 tbsp butter. Add flour and cook for 1-2 mins, or until bubbling. Add nutmeg and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook for 4 mins, or until sauce boils and thickens. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 the cheese until melted. Season. Add pasta and toss to combine.
4. 4
   Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Cook bacon for 3 mins, or until crispy. Add to pasta and toss to combine. Transfer to prepared pan.
5. 5
   Combine remaining cheese and breadcrumbs then sprinkle over pasta. Dot with remaining butter and bake for 20 mins, or until bubbling and golden. Let stand for 5 mins then serve.