Crispy and creamy mac and cheese

Method

• 1
  Preheat oven to 200C/180C fan-forced. Grease a 4cm-deep, 17cm x 22cm (base) 20.5cm x 26cm (top) baking dish. Cook pasta following packet directions. Drain.
• 2
  Meanwhile, melt 10g butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until bacon is golden. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towel to drain.
• 3
  Melt remaining butter in pan. Add onion. Cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until softened. Add thyme and garlic. Cook for 1 minute or until fragrant. Add flour. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute or until bubbling. Gradually add milk, stirring until smooth and combined. Add cream cheese and 1/2 cup cheese. Cook, stirring, for 4 to 5 minutes until mixture boils and thickens.
• 4
  Add pasta to cheese mixture. Stir to combine. Spoon mixture into prepared pan. Sprinkle with bacon, chips and remaining cheese. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until topping is golden and crisp. Stand for 5 minutes. Serve topped with extra thyme.