Penne with Gruyere and Bacon

We are moving in two weeks and I am trying to use up the food we have on hand so we have less to take with us. I came up with this meal to use up what I had in the fridge and pantry. The best part is that it was DELICIOUS! You can think of it as grown up mac & cheese if you want but the kids will gobble it up, too!

Enjoy!!!

Penne with Gruyere and Bacon

1 (16 oz) box penne
1 lb bacon
2 TBSP bacon grease
2 TBSP flour
2 cups milk
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
2 cups Gruyere, shredded
1 cup panko bread crumbs
2 TBSP butter, melted

Cook penne according to package directions; drain and set aside.

Cook bacon until crisp; crumble and set aside. Drain all but 2 TBSP of grease.

Add flour to grease and whisk to combine. Add salt, pepper, and milk. Bring to a boil and stir until thickened. Stir in cheese and mix until melted. Pour cheese mixture over penne and mix well.

Pour noodles into greased 9x13 dish. Mix panko and butter; sprinkle over noodles.

Bake at 350 for 25 minutes.