Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that warms your heart and soul, then this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is just what you need! This dish combines creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and crispy bacon to create a mouthwatering experience that never fails to bring smiles. It’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or any occasion when you crave something indulgent. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a cherished favorite in your home.

This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying to make. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish that everyone will love. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this delightful meal together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, making this dish is a breeze.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will be asking for seconds—it’s that good!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time for stress-free meals.
• Rich and Flavorful: The creamy cheese sauce paired with crispy bacon creates an unforgettable flavor explosion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting masterpiece:

For 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 (if not using 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 things about this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon if you prefer a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for an extra nutritional boost.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, try adding jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

How to Make Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Start by slicing the onions into even ¼-inch slices. In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil. Add the onions and toss them to coat evenly. Let them cook low and slow for about 40-50 minutes until they caramelize beautifully. This step enhances their sweetness and adds depth to your dish.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While your onions are caramelizing, chop the bacon into thirds. Place it in a large skillet over low heat. Cooking it slowly ensures that it gets crispy without burning. Note: This is a great time to measure out your remaining ingredients!

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

Once your bacon is crispy, remove it from the pan and set it aside on paper towels to drain. Reserve about 4 tablespoons of the drippings in the skillet (or use butter if needed). Heat those drippings over medium heat and whisk in flour; stir continuously for about two minutes until golden. Gradually add heavy cream followed by milk while stirring—this prevents lumps from forming.

Step 4: Mix in Flavorings

Now add mustard powder, thyme, garlic powder, and hot sauce into your creamy mixture. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat to simmer—it’s all about building layers of flavor here!

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Cook your pasta according to package instructions until just al dente; remember not to overcook! Drain it well so that it can soak up all that delicious sauce later.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Lower the heat on your sauce slightly; let it cool for just a moment before gradually sprinkling in your shredded cheeses while stirring continuously until melted. Once combined, gently fold in those luscious caramelized onions followed by drained pasta using a silicone spatula.

Step 7: Add Crispy Bacon

Finally, roughly chop your reserved bacon and sprinkle it generously over top. Feel free to mix some into the mac and cheese as well for extra crunch!

Step 8: Garnish & Serve!

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, scoop yourself a generous portion, and serve warm! Enjoy every cheesy bite of this delightful Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Making the perfect Bacon Mac & Cheese is all about those little touches that elevate the dish. Here are some pro tips to ensure your mac and cheese turns out creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious!

• Use high-quality cheese: Opting for freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties will give you a smoother sauce and richer flavor because they melt better.

• Cook pasta al dente: Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures it retains some bite and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce. This creates the perfect texture.

• Reserve pasta water: Before draining your pasta, save a cup of the starchy cooking water. Adding a splash can help adjust the creaminess of your sauce if it becomes too thick.

• Customize your toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Adding breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter can provide a delightful crunch on top when baked.

• Let it rest: Allowing your mac and cheese to sit for about 10 minutes before serving gives it time to set up, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.

How to Serve Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Presenting your Bacon Mac & Cheese in an appealing way can make all the difference at mealtime. Here are some ideas on how to serve this comforting dish that will impress family and friends alike!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of cracked black pepper not only enhances flavor but also adds visual appeal.
• Extra cheese: Grating some additional cheese on top before serving gives a beautiful finish while inviting guests to dig into more cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Green Salad: A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of mac and cheese while adding freshness.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots bring earthy flavors and textures that contrast nicely with the creamy pasta.

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit! Its crunchy texture provides delightful contrast while soaking up any leftover cheese sauce on your plate.

• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can bring brightness to your meal, balancing out the heaviness of mac and cheese with its crunchy texture and zesty dressing.

With these serving suggestions and tips up your sleeve, you’re set to make an unforgettable Bacon Mac & Cheese that everyone will love! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe is perfect for meal prep! It can easily be made ahead of time and stored, making those busy nights a breeze. Here’s how to keep your delicious creation fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-5 days for the best flavor and texture.
• For easy access, portion out individual servings.

Freezing

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or use freezer bags, removing excess air.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through, stirring between intervals.
• Alternatively, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common ones about this Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe:

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

Absolutely! You can substitute bacon with plant-based bacon or simply skip it altogether. The creamy cheese sauce will still shine!

What makes this Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe different from others?

This recipe features caramelized onions and a blend of cheeses for added depth of flavor. Plus, using hickory smoked bacon gives it that irresistible smoky taste.

How can I make this Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe healthier?

You can use whole grain pasta for added fiber and swap some of the cheeses for lower-fat options. Adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli is also a great way to boost nutrition!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a dish; it’s comfort food that brings family and friends together. So gather your loved ones, whip up this cheesy goodness, and savor every bite. Happy cooking!