Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! This Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is not just food; it’s an experience. Imagine creamy cheese sauce enveloping perfectly cooked pasta and topped with crispy bacon. It’s a beloved comfort food that shines at family gatherings, cozy nights in, or any moment when you crave something indulgent and satisfying. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious and comforting dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This Bacon Mac & Cheese comes together in just about an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy goodness—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve. Perfect for meal prep!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cheeses and crispy bacon creates a rich flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Comfort Food Classic: There’s nothing like a warm bowl of mac and cheese to soothe the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish. These are easy to find and bring together wonderfully for a comforting meal.

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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the Protein: Use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Change the Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese combinations, like mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Top it Off: Sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking for added crunch.

How to Make Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Slice your onions into even ¼-inch slices. In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil. Add the sliced onions and toss them to coat. Let them cook slowly for about 40-50 minutes until they are beautifully caramelized. Stir every few minutes; if they cook too fast, reduce the heat. This step is crucial as it brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While your onions are cooking away, cut the bacon into thirds. This makes it easy to turn as it cooks. Add them to a large skillet over low heat. Cook slowly until crispy on both sides—this low-and-slow method ensures your bacon gets perfectly crunchy without burning.

Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

Once your bacon is crispy, set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate and reserve about 4 tablespoons of those delicious drippings. If you don’t have enough drippings, feel free to use butter instead! Now heat those drippings over medium heat and whisk in the flour. Keep stirring continuously for about 2 minutes—this creates a roux that will thicken your sauce.

Step 4: Add Dairy and Seasonings

Now comes the fun part! Gradually add in the heavy cream while stirring continuously—you don’t want your roux to break! Follow up with milk in the same manner. Once combined, add mustard powder, thyme, garlic powder, and hot sauce. Bring everything to a boil before reducing it to simmer.

Step 5: Cook Your Pasta

Boil salted water in another pot for your pasta shells. Cook them until just al dente according to package instructions—don’t overcook! Drain once done.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Reduce your sauce’s heat to low and let it cool slightly before adding all that glorious cheese gradually while stirring until melted and smooth. Mix in those caramelized onions next followed by your drained pasta using a silicone spatula until everything is well combined.

Step 7: Add Bacon Bliss

Roughly chop your reserved bacon and sprinkle it generously over your mac and cheese! If you’d like, stir some in too—it’s all about that deliciousness!

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm! Enjoy every creamy bite of this delightful Bacon Mac & Cheese—it’s comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Making the perfect Bacon Mac & Cheese is all about technique and timing. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy, cheesy, and utterly scrumptious!

• Use Quality Cheese: Choose a combination of good-quality cheeses, like gruyere and cheddar, for a rich flavor. The better the cheese, the creamier and more flavorful your sauce will be.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Undercook your pasta slightly so it maintains a bit of bite. This ensures it won’t turn mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce.

• Save Some Cheese for Topping: Reserve a portion of your shredded cheese to sprinkle on top before baking or serving. This creates a deliciously gooey layer that everyone will love.

• Add Extra Flavor with Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick. They add depth and can elevate the overall flavor profile of your mac and cheese.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing your mac and cheese to sit for a few minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Plus, it makes serving much easier!

How to Serve Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Presentation is key when it comes to serving Bacon Mac & Cheese! Here are some delightful ways to elevate this comfort dish at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes brings an exciting contrast to the creamy cheese.
• Extra Shredded Cheese: Top with additional shredded cheese just before serving for that melty goodness that everyone craves.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect companion to soak up any leftover cheesy goodness.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli provides a nutritious balance to this rich dish while adding a lovely crunch.
• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing, making it a refreshing counterpart to your hearty mac and cheese.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add both color and nutrients, complementing the flavors of bacon and cheese while bringing variety to your plate.

Enjoy every delicious bite of your Bacon Mac & Cheese! Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or enjoying it as a cozy solo meal, these tips will help you create an unforgettable dish that warms the heart.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week without any hassle. Here’s how to keep your delicious dish fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• It should be consumed within 3-5 days for the best flavor.

Freezing

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Just label and date your container!

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
• Alternatively, you can use the microwave; warm in short intervals, stirring frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe!

Can I use turkey bacon in my Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe?

Yes! Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just cook it until crispy like regular bacon for that satisfying crunch.

How can I make my Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe more nutritious?

You can boost the nutrition by adding veggies like broccoli or spinach. They not only add color but also enhance the flavor and nutritional profile!

What pasta works best for this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe?

Medium pasta shells are ideal as they hold onto the cheese sauce beautifully. However, you can also use elbow macaroni or cavatappi if preferred.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe becomes a favorite in your home! Bacon Mac & Cheese is not just about comfort food; it’s about gathering around the table with loved ones and sharing hearty laughs. Enjoy making this indulgent dish and feel free to get creative with your toppings or add-ins. Happy cooking, and may every bite bring you joy!