Company-Worthy Mac and Cheese

Bahan-bahan (8 porsi)

• 12 slices uncooked bacon
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 3 cups (90g) fresh spinach (optional; see note)
• 1 pound dry elbow pasta
• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, divided
• 1/4 cup (31g) all-purpose flour
• 3 cups (720ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (240ml) half-and-half (or more whole milk)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
• 5 cups (560g) shredded cheese (I recommend 3 cups sharp white cheddar, 1 cup regular sharp cheddar, and 1 cup gouda)
• optional: 1/2 cup (45g) breadcrumbs, such as Panko
• optional: 1/2 cup (40g) shredded parmesan cheese
• optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish