Name: Macaroni and Cheese with Mushrooms and Bacon
Yield: Makes 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound small elbow macaroni (about 4 cups); 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter; 3/4 pound mushrooms, chopped; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon all purpose flour; 3/4 teaspoon dry mustard; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 1/2 cups whole milk; 3 cups (packed) grated sharp cheddar cheese (about 12 ounces); 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 8 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped; 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs made from crustless French bread

Stuart Faber of Los Angeles, California, writes: "When I'm not in my law office, I fly my own plane and write for In Flight USA, a magazine for private pilots. One of my favorite things to do when landing someplace new is to find a restaurant and ask if I can work for free. I've found some of my best recipes this way. Usually the chefs will let me hang out for a few days and help, but some do look at me a little strangely."

A dressed-up version of a dinnertime classic.

Recipe notes

Chocolate Guinness Cake

A generous glug of stout gives this snackable loaf a malty depth.

Super Seedy Power Cookies

As energizing as an energy bar, with a much simpler ingredient list.

Hot Honey–Glazed Salmon

This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.

Golden Mushroom Soup With Orzo & a Pat of Butter

This is the type of soup that, at first glance, might seem a little…unexciting. But you’re underestimating the power of mushrooms, which do the heavy lifting.

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Classic French Vinaigrette

Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

One-Pot Chicken Thighs With Cilantro Rice and Beans

This one-pot dinner cooks chicken thighs directly on top of a bed of flavorful cilantro rice studded with black beans for a complete dinner.