Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, then this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is just what you need! Imagine creamy cheese sauce lovingly coating every shell of pasta, all topped off with crispy bacon. It’s the kind of meal that makes busy weeknights feel special and family gatherings even more delightful. Whether you’re snuggled up on the couch or entertaining loved ones, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around.

What makes this dish truly special is how it combines simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Each bite is a little piece of comfort, making it perfect for any occasion when you want to indulge just a bit. So let’s get started on creating this cherished recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike adore creamy mac and cheese! It’s an excellent way to get everyone to the table.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve, making mealtime stress-free.
• Rich flavors: The combination of gruyere and cheddar cheeses gives this mac and cheese an irresistible cheesy goodness that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Customizable: With a few simple tweaks, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Bacon Mac & Cheese is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need for this indulgent dish!

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

One of the best parts about this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try adding cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier version.
• Go veggie: For a lighter twist, toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Mix different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.
• Add spices: Spice lovers can sprinkle in some paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick!

How to Make Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Start by slicing 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 them to coat. Patience is key here! Let them cook slowly for about 40-50 minutes until they are beautifully caramelized. This process brings out their natural sweetness and adds a lovely depth of flavor to our dish.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the onions are cooking, cut the bacon into thirds. This makes it easier to manage while cooking. Place them in a large skillet over low heat. Cooking low and slow is crucial here; we want crispy bacon without burning it. As they sizzle away, feel free to measure out your other ingredients—it’s multitasking at its finest!

Step 3: Make Your Roux

Once your bacon is crispy, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve about 4 tablespoons of those glorious bacon drippings (or use butter if necessary). Heat these drippings over medium heat and whisk in flour continuously for about 2 minutes until smooth. This creates a roux that will thicken our cheese sauce.

Step 4: Create Your Sauce

Gradually add heavy cream in splashes while stirring continuously—this prevents any lumps from forming. After that, do the same with milk. Once combined, add mustard powder, thyme, garlic powder, and hot sauce. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing it to a simmer.

Step 5: Cook Your Pasta

At this point, bring a pot of salted water to boil and cook your pasta until just al dente according to package instructions—don’t overcook! Drain it well so we can mix it into our creamy sauce later.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Reduce the heat of your sauce to low and let it cool slightly before gradually sprinkling in your cheeses while stirring until melted and smooth. Adding caramelized onions now will elevate your mac and cheese even more! Finally, fold in your drained pasta using a silicone spatula until everything is beautifully combined.

Step 7: Finish It Up

Roughly chop your crispy bacon and sprinkle it generously over your mac and cheese—feel free to stir some in too if you’d like! A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds color and freshness before serving.

And there you have it—a deliciously comforting Bacon Mac & Cheese that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Making the perfect Bacon Mac & Cheese is all about technique and a little love. Here are some pro tips to help you achieve cheesy perfection!

• Use high-quality cheese: The better the cheese, the creamier and more flavorful your sauce will be. Opt for freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded, as it melts better and avoids additives.

• Don’t rush the caramelization: Taking your time to caramelize the onions enhances their sweetness and adds depth to the dish. A slower cook at medium heat allows for that beautiful golden color and rich flavor to develop.

• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking pasta just until al dente ensures it will hold its shape when combined with the cheese sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy. Plus, it will continue to absorb flavors while baking or mixing.

• Reserve some pasta water: If your cheese sauce turns out thicker than desired, a splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen it up without losing flavor. It also adds starch, which helps bind everything together.

• Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to mix in different types of cheeses according to your taste preferences. Adding a bit of mozzarella can create an extra gooey texture, while a sprinkle of blue cheese can add a delightful bite!

How to Serve Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Serving your Bacon Mac & Cheese is as important as making it! Presentation can elevate this comfort food into something truly special. Here are some ideas on how to showcase this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley not only adds freshness but also brings a pop of color to the creamy dish.
• Crispy breadcrumbs: Toasted breadcrumbs on top provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mac and cheese.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice kick and enhances overall flavor without overpowering the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic side complements any pasta dish perfectly. The buttery, garlicky goodness is an irresistible pairing with cheesy mac.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds nutrition and a lovely crunch. Plus, it balances out the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with tangy Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast in flavor and texture alongside the heaviness of the mac and cheese.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These savory bites add an earthy flavor that works well with the richness of bacon and cheese while providing an extra health boost.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to enjoy your homemade Bacon Mac & Cheese! Whether it’s for a family gathering or just a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the mac and cheese cool completely.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, freeze without garnishes like parsley.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently until heated through.

FAQs

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

Can I use a different type of cheese in my Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe?

Absolutely! While gruyere and cheddar create a rich flavor, you can substitute with mozzarella, gouda, or any cheese you prefer. Just ensure they melt well.

How do I make my Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe healthier?

To lighten up this dish, consider using whole wheat pasta or reducing the amount of cheese. You can also add in vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition!

What is the best way to store leftover Bacon Mac & Cheese?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Follow our tips above for freezing if you want long-term storage!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe! It’s truly special because it brings warmth and happiness to any gathering or cozy night in. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on this classic dish. Happy cooking!