Bacon & Gouda Macaroni & Cheese

This one's for you, Tootie. ; )

16 oz macaroni
1/2 lb bacon, snipped into pieces
1 medium red onion, diced
2 Tbsp flour
2 Tbsp butter
2 cups milk
2 cups (8 oz) Gouda cheese, shredded

Preheat oven to 375. Grease a 2-qt baking dish with cooking spray.

Cook macaroni in boiling water, per package directions. Drain and set aside.

While the pasta is cooking, cook the bacon pieces in a large skillet over medium heat. When they are crispy, remove from pan and drain on paper towels. Pour off all but 1 Tbsp of the bacon drippings, then return pan to heat and add onions. Cook and stir until the onions are soft and translucent. Remove from pan and set aside with bacon bits.

Return pan to heat, and add butter. When butter is melted, whisk in flour, stirring until it bubbles. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Continue stirring constantly until the mixture boils and thickens. Reduce heat to a simmer, and add shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted. Stir in bacon bits and onion. Gently stir in cooked, drained macaroni, mixing thoroughly. Pour macaroni mixture into prepared baking dish.

Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.