Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you up in warmth and comfort, this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is just what you need. Imagine creamy cheese enveloping perfectly cooked pasta, with crispy bacon bits adding that irresistible crunch. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or simply when you need a little indulgence in your life. Trust me, once you try it, this delightful dish will become a favorite in your home!

Bacon Mac & Cheese is not just about flavors; it’s also about the joy of sharing a delicious meal with those you love. Whether you’re hosting a cozy movie night or preparing dinner after a long day, this recipe will bring smiles to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have this delightful dish ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy goodness combined with crispy bacon.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it right before serving.
• Flexible Ingredients: Customize it to fit your tastes by adding veggies or swapping cheeses.
• Comfort Food Classic: There’s something undeniably satisfying about digging into a warm plate of mac and cheese!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delicious Bacon Mac & Cheese, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Gather these items to get started:

For the Caramelized Onions (Optional)

• 2 large yellow onions
• 2 Tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Mac and Cheese

• 6 strips thick-cut bacon (hickory smoked is great)
• 1 lb. medium pasta shells
• 1/4 cup butter (not needed if you have enough bacon drippings)
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 cup gruyere cheese (shredded)
• 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)

Variations

This Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the Protein: Try using turkey bacon or veggie bacon for a lighter option.
• Add Veggies: Sneak in some steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!

How to Make Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Start by slicing the onions into even ¼-inch slices. In a medium skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and toss to coat them well. Let them cook low and slow for 40-50 minutes until they turn golden brown and sweetly caramelized. Stir them every few minutes to prevent burning. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While your onions are caramelizing, cut the bacon into thirds for easy cooking. In a large high-walled skillet over low heat, add the bacon pieces. Allow them to cook slowly until crispy on both sides—this enhances their flavor! As they cook, take advantage of this time to measure out your remaining ingredients.

Step 3: Prepare the Pasta

Now’s the time to bring salted water to a boil for cooking your pasta shells. Remember to follow package instructions for cooking until just al dente—this ensures they don’t become mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

Once your bacon is crispy, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve about 4 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the skillet (or use butter if needed). Over medium heat, whisk in flour while stirring continuously for about two minutes—this creates your roux! Gradually add heavy cream followed by milk in splashes while stirring constantly to avoid breaking your mixture.

Step 5: Flavor It Up!

Stir in mustard powder, dried thyme, garlic powder, and hot sauce once your mixture comes to a boil. Reduce to simmer while keeping an eye on it—this step infuses all those lovely flavors together beautifully.

Step 6: Combine It All

After cooking your pasta shells per instructions, drain them well. Lower your sauce heat and sprinkle in grated cheeses gradually while stirring until everything is melted together nicely. Fold in those luscious caramelized onions followed by drained pasta using a silicone spatula until fully combined.

Step 7: Add Bacon & Serve

Roughly chop that crispy bacon you set aside earlier and sprinkle it over your creamy mac and cheese masterpiece! If you like, stir some into the pot as well. Finish off with fresh parsley as garnish before serving!

And there you have it! A heartfelt dish that’s sure to be loved by everyone around your table! Enjoy every cheesy bite of this delightful Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe!

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Making Bacon Mac & Cheese is a delightful culinary adventure, and with just a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Choose the Right Pasta: Opting for medium pasta shells allows for more cheese sauce to cling to every bite, ensuring that every forkful is bursting with flavor.
• Cook Low and Slow: Cooking the bacon over low heat helps render out the fat gradually, making it crispy without burning. This results in perfectly cooked bacon that enhances the dish’s texture.
• Don’t Rush the Roux: When whisking in the flour, take your time to create a smooth roux. This step is critical in achieving a creamy cheese sauce without lumps.
• Gradual Cheese Addition: Adding cheese slowly while stirring prevents clumping and ensures a silky-smooth sauce. It’s all about that luscious finish!
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings based on your preference! A little extra hot sauce or garlic powder can make a world of difference in flavor.

How to Serve Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Serving up your Bacon Mac & Cheese can be as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the rich flavors.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little heat, sprinkling some red pepper flakes on top gives an exciting kick!
• Breadcrumb Topping: Toasted breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil can add a crunchy texture contrast to creamy mac and cheese.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that complements the richness of mac and cheese; its crispy crust is perfect for scooping up any cheesy goodness left on your plate.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the heavy mac and cheese.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also introduces some nutritious green veggies into your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers enhance flavor while adding an appealing visual element to your dinner table.

Now you’re all set to create an unforgettable Bacon Mac & Cheese experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a comforting dish throughout the week. The flavors meld beautifully, and it can be stored or frozen for later use.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• Let the mac and cheese cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
• Heat on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I make this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe without bacon?

Absolutely! You can substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or your favorite plant-based bacon alternative for a similar smoky flavor without using meat.

How do I ensure my Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe stays creamy?

To keep your mac and cheese creamy, make sure not to overcook the pasta and add milk while reheating if it seems dry. Stir continuously when adding cheese to create a smooth sauce.

What is the best type of cheese for this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe?

Using a combination of gruyere and cheddar gives this recipe a rich, flavorful profile. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack!

Can I add vegetables to my Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe?

Yes! Adding cooked broccoli, spinach, or roasted peppers can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of your dish.

Final Thoughts

This Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings people together. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Feel free to tweak it with your favorite ingredients or share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!