Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy recipe that brings a smile to your face, you’ve found it! This Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is my go-to comfort food for every occasion. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish never fails to please. Trust me; once you make it, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation.

What makes this recipe truly special is not just the combination of flavors but also the memories associated with it. Picture yourself gathered around the table with loved ones, sharing laughter and stories over a warm bowl of cheesy goodness. Are you ready to dive in?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for those nights when time is tight.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the rich flavors of cheese and crispy bacon.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare it in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs without losing its deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be happy to know that this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients you might already have at home. 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.
• Add veggies: Sneak in some spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cheese mix-up: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you like your mac & cheese with a kick!

How to Make Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Slice the onions into even ¼-inch slices. In a medium skillet over medium heat, heat the butter and olive oil. Toss in the sliced onions and coat them well. Let them cook slowly for 40-50 minutes until they become beautifully caramelized. Stir them every few minutes to ensure even cooking. This step is crucial because caramelizing brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While your onions are busy caramelizing away, cut the bacon into thirds—this makes flipping easier! Add them to a large skillet over low heat and let them cook until crispy on both sides. Cooking low and slow ensures perfect crispiness without burning. Pro tip: While bacon cooks, measure out your remaining ingredients!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Once your bacon is crispy, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve about 4 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan—or use butter if needed. Heat those drippings over medium heat, then whisk in flour continuously for about two minutes. This forms the roux that thickens our sauce.

Step 4: Add Cream and Milk

Gradually add heavy cream in splashes while stirring continuously; this helps prevent breaking your roux! Repeat with milk until everything is combined nicely. Then add mustard powder, thyme, garlic powder, and hot sauce; bring this delightful mixture to a boil before reducing it to simmer.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Prepare salted water for boiling pasta shells while you’re waiting on that sauce! Cook until just al dente (check package instructions), then drain well—overcooking will lead to mushy mac & cheese!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Reduce sauce heat to low after reaching a gentle simmer. Slowly sprinkle in gruyere, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses while stirring continuously until melted. Don’t rush this part; letting each addition melt completely creates that luscious texture we all love! Fold in those caramelized onions followed by drained pasta until everything looks creamy.

Step 7: Add Bacon

Roughly chop your crispy bacon pieces and sprinkle them over the mac & cheese—feel free to stir some into the mixture too! The smoky flavor complements all that cheesy goodness perfectly.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for an extra pop of color! Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy bite of this fantastic dish!

With these easy steps under your belt, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your homemade Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Creating the perfect Bacon Mac & Cheese can be a delightful journey if you keep these helpful tips in mind!

• Use quality cheese: Opt for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties. Fresh cheese melts better and provides a richer, creamier texture to your sauce.

• Don’t rush the caramelization: Take your time when caramelizing the onions. This process enhances their natural sweetness, adding depth of flavor to your mac and cheese.

• Cook pasta al dente: Since the pasta will continue to cook slightly in the sauce, stopping at al dente ensures it won’t become mushy by the time you serve it.

• Reserve some pasta water: If your cheese sauce seems too thick, adding a splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen it up while also adding starch for a silkier consistency.

• Experiment with bacon varieties: Try different types of bacon or even turkey bacon for a healthier twist. Each type will contribute its unique flavor profile!

How to Serve Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Presenting your Bacon Mac & Cheese beautifully can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can bring an exciting kick to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also provides a healthy contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Garden salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites.
• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and makes for an indulgent side that pairs well with this creamy dish.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and nutrition, making your meal more balanced while enhancing the overall presentation.

Enjoy crafting this comforting dish and don’t forget to share it with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

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

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you have any leftover bacon, keep it separate to maintain its crispiness.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for reference!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up.
• Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe.

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

Absolutely! You can substitute bacon with plant-based alternatives or simply omit it. The creamy cheese sauce will still be heavenly!

How long does this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe last in the fridge?

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container.

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

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses such as mozzarella, fontina, or pepper jack for a flavor twist.

What’s a good side dish to serve with Bacon Mac & Cheese?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with this rich dish, balancing out the flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings comfort to any gathering. Enjoy every creamy bite and let your kitchen fill with delightful aromas as you create this special dish. Happy cooking!