In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp, approximately 4 - 5 minutes. If not adding the bacon, skip to step 4.
Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving approximately 1 tbsp bacon fat in the pan.
Melt the butter and add the flour.
Stir and cook the flour and butter mixture until foaming and smells nutty, approximately 1 - 2 minutes.
Add the cream and stir to combine, cooking until it thickens, approximately 1 minute.
Add the sherry, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and white pepper, stirring to combine.
Add the cheese and stir to melt and combine before lowering the heat to low.
Fold in the cooked and drained pasta (and bacon if using).
Serve with a sprinkle of paprika.
Notes
This recipe makes a healthy two portions - for a tasty reason. Split the portions and use the second portion in a tasty fried macaroni and cheese side dish to another meal!
Recipe by Cooking 4 One at https://www.cooking-4-one.com/2017/01/14/macaroni-and-cheese/