Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, your search ends here! This Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is not just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. The creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and crispy bacon come together to create something truly special. It’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or any time you crave something indulgent and satisfying. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a favorite at your table!

What makes this recipe even better is how simple it is to prepare. Whether you’re a busy parent or someone who just loves good food, this Bacon Mac & Cheese is here to save the day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves mac and cheese! This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this ahead of time for those busy weeknights or potlucks.
• Deliciously Indulgent: The combination of cheeses and crispy bacon creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 quite flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey bacon or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
• Add veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for an extra nutritional boost.
• Cheese it up: Mix different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you love a bit of heat.

How to Make Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Slice the onions into even ¼-inch slices. Heat the butter and olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and toss to coat them well. Let them reduce and caramelize for about 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your dish.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the onions are caramelizing, cut the bacon into thirds. This makes it easy to move them around as they cook for even crispiness. Place them in a large, high-walled skillet over low heat. Let them cook low and slow until they are crispy on each side. Pro tip: Measure out your remaining ingredients while the bacon cooks so everything is ready to go!

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Once your bacon is crispy, remove it from the pan and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve about 4 tablespoons of bacon drippings; if there isn’t enough, use butter instead. Now is also a great time to start boiling salted water for your pasta shells.

Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce

Heat those delicious bacon drippings over medium heat and whisk in flour while stirring continuously for about 2 minutes until smooth. Gradually add heavy cream in splashes while stirring constantly—this helps prevent the roux from breaking! Follow with milk in the same manner.

Step 5: Flavor It Up!

Add mustard powder, thyme, garlic powder, and hot sauce to the mixture. Bring everything to a boil then lower it back down to simmer gently while stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Cook Your Pasta

Cook your pasta until it’s just al dente according to package instructions—don’t overcook! Drain it once it’s done.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Lower the heat on your sauce and let it cool slightly before gradually adding in shredded cheese while stirring until melted and creamy. Stir in those beautiful caramelized onions followed by your drained pasta.

Step 8: Finish with Bacon

Roughly chop your crispy bacon and sprinkle it over your mac and cheese; feel free to stir some into the mix too!

Step 9: Serve It Up!

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for color and serve warm. Enjoy every cheesy bite of this delightful Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe!

Now you’re all set to create a comforting meal that everyone will love! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Making the perfect Bacon Mac & Cheese is all about the little details. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious!

• Use quality cheese: The type of cheese you choose can make a huge difference! Opt for high-quality cheeses like Gruyere and sharp cheddar for a rich flavor that will elevate your mac and cheese.

• Don’t rush the bacon: Cooking bacon slowly over low heat allows it to become perfectly crispy without burning. This step is crucial for achieving that satisfying crunch in every bite.

• Make a roux properly: Whisking the flour into the bacon drippings (or butter) ensures a smooth and lump-free cheese sauce. This base is essential for creating that creamy texture we all love.

• Mix in the cheese gradually: Adding cheese gradually while stirring helps prevent clumping. This technique ensures that your sauce remains velvety and cohesive.

• Customize to your taste: Feel free to adjust seasonings or add extras like sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Personalizing your dish makes it even more enjoyable!

How to Serve Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Presentation can make all the difference when serving up this comforting dish! Here are some fun ideas on how to present and enjoy your Bacon Mac & Cheese.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who like a bit of heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes offers a spicy kick that complements the creaminess perfectly.
• Extra shredded cheese: A light topping of extra cheese just before serving gives it an appealing melty look and enhances the cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with creamy mac and cheese, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Steamed broccoli: Adding some greens like steamed broccoli not only adds nutrition but also brightens up your plate with color. Plus, it provides a nice contrast in texture!
• Caesar salad: A crisp Caesar salad with its tangy dressing complements the richness of mac and cheese beautifully, providing a refreshing balance.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds both flavor and nutrition. Their caramelized edges bring an earthy sweetness that enhances each bite of mac and cheese.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe, making it your own with delicious sides and garnishes! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep for up to 3-5 days.
• When storing, try to separate any bacon pieces if you want to maintain their crispiness.

Freezing

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it into a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess, or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! You can substitute bacon with smoked turkey or omit it entirely for a vegetarian-friendly version. The creamy cheese sauce still makes it incredibly delicious!

How can I enhance my Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe?

Consider adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or even jalapeños for extra flavor. You can also mix different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist!

How long does this Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe last?

When stored properly, this dish can last up to 5 days in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer. Perfect for meal prep!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this comforting Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe! It’s a special dish that brings warmth and joy to any meal. Enjoy making it with your loved ones, and don’t forget to savor every delicious bite. Happy cooking!