Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking for a recipe that warms the heart and fills the belly, this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is just what you need! This dish is a true classic, marrying creamy cheese sauce with perfectly cooked pasta and crispy bacon in every bite. It’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or whenever you find yourself craving something indulgent and satisfying. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to comfort food!

What makes this Bacon Mac & Cheese special is not just its rich flavor but also how easy it is to whip up. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you can put together this delicious meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: Nothing says cozy like a bowl of warm mac and cheese topped with crispy bacon.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll have this dish ready in no time!
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will ask for seconds—it’s truly a crowd-pleaser.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it ahead of time for those busy weeknights or gatherings. Just bake when you’re ready!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a delightful meal. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need!

For the Caramelized Onions

• 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 (if needed)
• 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

Feel free to get creative with this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe! It’s super flexible, so you can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey bacon or chicken sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Incorporate spinach or broccoli for a pop of color and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Try using mozzarella or pepper jack for an extra kick!
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or spicy sausage for some heat.

How to Make Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Slice 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 them gently to coat. Let them cook slowly for about 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are golden brown and caramelized. This step adds sweetness and depth to your mac and cheese!

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While your onions are caramelizing, cut the bacon into thirds. Place them in a large skillet over low heat and let them cook slowly until crispy on both sides—this should take about 10-15 minutes. Remember: low and slow ensures even cooking! Once done, set them aside on paper towels to drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet with reserved bacon drippings (or butter if needed), whisk in the flour over medium heat for about 2 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Gradually add the heavy cream while stirring continuously—adding it too quickly can cause lumps! Then do the same with milk. This creates a smooth base for your cheesy sauce.

Step 4: Season It Up

Mix in mustard powder, dried thyme, garlic powder, and hot sauce into your simmering sauce. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing to low heat—that’s where all those flavors meld together beautifully!

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Cook your pasta shells according to package instructions until just al dente—don’t overcook! Drain them well so they’re ready to mingle with that delicious cheese sauce.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Reduce heat under your sauce to low again and let it cool slightly before gradually adding in all that wonderful cheese! Stir continuously until melted and combined. Then toss in those caramelized onions followed by your drained pasta shells—using a spatula helps ensure everything is well mixed.

Step 7: Finish It Off

Roughly chop your crispy bacon pieces and sprinkle them generously over your mac and cheese—feel free to mix some in too if you like! Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

And there you have it—a truly comforting Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe that’s sure to warm hearts around any table! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Making a perfect Bacon Mac & Cheese is all about the little details. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy, cheesy, and utterly delightful!

• Use Quality Cheese: Investing in good-quality gruyere and cheddar cheese will elevate the flavor of your sauce. Cheeses with higher fat content melt beautifully and create that coveted creamy texture.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking your pasta just until al dente is crucial. It will continue to cook once mixed with the hot cheese sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy.

• Whisk Continuously: When adding liquids to your roux, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. This ensures a smooth and velvety cheese sauce that coats every piece of pasta.

• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different types of cheeses! Adding mozzarella or gouda can introduce new flavors and textures that make your mac and cheese uniquely yours.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: After combining everything, taste your mac and cheese before serving. You might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or hot sauce for an extra kick!

How to Serve Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Serving up this Bacon Mac & Cheese can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish in style.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that brightens up the richness of the dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you love a little heat, sprinkling some crushed red pepper flakes on top will give you that desired spicy kick.
• Extra Shredded Cheese: For added decadence, top each serving with an extra handful of shredded cheese right before serving. Pop it under the broiler for a minute to get it all melty!

Side Dishes

• Garden Salad: A refreshing garden salad with crisp greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of mac and cheese perfectly.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like broccoli or Brussels sprouts bring texture and balance to your meal while adding nutrients.

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread serves as an excellent side for scooping up every cheesy bite while adding some satisfying crunch.

• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits offers a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the mac and cheese, making for a well-rounded meal.

Now that you have all these great tips and serving suggestions at your fingertips, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your delicious Bacon Mac & Cheese! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily store leftovers or even make a batch ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious and comforting meal ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

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

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place!

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

Yes, turkey bacon can be a great alternative! It will still provide that smoky flavor while keeping the dish lighter.

How do I make this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and replace it with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. You can also use plant-based bacon alternatives for added flavor.

What types of cheese work best in this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe?

While the recipe calls for gruyere and cheddar, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses! Mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack can add unique flavors.

Can I prepare this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even a non-dairy cream alternative for a lighter option.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings everyone together. Whether it’s for dinner tonight or meal prep for the week, I’m sure it will become a family favorite. Happy cooking!