Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that warms your heart and fills your belly, this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is just what you need. It’s a classic dish that brings together creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and crispy bacon, creating the kind of cozy meal that makes any day feel special. Whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy night in, or just a little indulgence after a long week, this mac and cheese will surely satisfy your cravings.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and the delightful blend of flavors. You can easily whip it up on busy weeknights or serve it at festive gatherings. Trust me; everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike adore the creamy texture and savory flavors that make it a hit at every table.
• Make ahead: Perfect for meal prep! Cook it in advance and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it uniquely yours.
• Comforting flavor: The combination of cheeses and crispy bacon creates a dish that’s both rich and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delightful dish, you’ll need some wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll gather for your Bacon Mac & Cheese:

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 (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 mix things up to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Instead of bacon, try using turkey bacon or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
• Experiment with cheeses: Different cheese blends like mozzarella or pepper jack can give your mac and cheese an exciting twist.
• Spice it up: For those who like a kick, add diced jalapeños or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper.

How to Make Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare 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 while stirring occasionally. This slow cooking process enhances their sweetness and gives them that perfect golden color.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the onions are caramelizing, cut the bacon into thirds. This makes it easier to cook evenly. Place them in a large skillet over low heat and let them cook until crispy on each side. Cooking low and slow allows the fat to render properly while keeping the meat tender. While waiting, you can measure out your other ingredients!

Step 3: Reserve Bacon Drippings

Once crispy, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Be sure to reserve about 4 tablespoons of bacon drippings; if there’s not enough, you can use butter instead.

Step 4: Boil Pasta

Now’s a good time to start boiling salted water for your pasta shells! Follow package instructions until they reach al dente perfection—don’t overcook them!

Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the skillet with reserved drippings over medium heat, whisk in flour continuously for about 2 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Gradually add heavy cream in small splashes while stirring carefully; adding too quickly can cause lumps. Repeat this with milk until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Flavor It Up

Next, stir in mustard powder, thyme, garlic powder, and hot sauce into your sauce mixture. Bring it all to a boil before reducing heat to let it simmer gently—this allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Combine Pasta with Sauce

When your pasta is ready, drain it well but don’t rinse! Reduce heat on your sauce to low before gradually sprinkling in both gruyere and cheddar cheeses while stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Add those lovely caramelized onions followed by drained pasta—gently fold everything together with a silicone spatula until well combined.

Step 8: Finish with Bacon

Roughly chop your crispy bacon pieces and sprinkle some over top of your mac and cheese—feel free to stir some into the mix as well! This adds an irresistible crunch alongside that creamy goodness.

Step 9: Serve It Up!

Garnish with fresh parsley for color before serving! Enjoy every cheesy bite of this comforting meal with loved ones around you!

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Making the perfect Bacon Mac & Cheese is all about the little details that elevate your dish from good to amazing. Here are some pro tips to help you achieve cheesy perfection!

• Use quality cheese: Opt for high-quality cheeses like Gruyere and sharp cheddar, as they melt beautifully and provide a rich flavor that’ll make your mac and cheese unforgettable.
• Don’t rush the caramelization: Taking your time to caramelize the onions will enhance their sweetness and depth of flavor, adding a wonderful complexity to your dish.
• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking your pasta just until it’s al dente ensures it won’t become mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce, keeping a pleasant texture in every bite.
• Reserve pasta water: If your cheese sauce is too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen it up while still retaining creaminess.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add breadcrumbs or extra cheese on top before baking for a delightful crispy finish that contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior.

How to Serve Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Serving up your Bacon Mac & Cheese can be just as fun as making it! With a few simple ideas, you can turn this comforting dish into an eye-catching centerpiece.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes provides a nice kick that complements the creaminess.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of Parmesan over the top brings an additional layer of savory flavor that enhances each bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This crispy, buttery delight is perfect for scooping up any leftover mac and cheese. The garlic adds a lovely aromatic touch that pairs wonderfully with cheesy dishes.
• Steamed Broccoli: A side of steamed broccoli offers a healthy crunch! Its slight bitterness balances out the richness of the mac and cheese—plus, it’s colorful!
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers provides refreshing contrast. The acidity from a light vinaigrette helps cut through the creamy richness.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized morsels bring out nutty flavors that complement the mac and cheese beautifully while offering added nutrition.

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your delicious Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe! Enjoy each cheesy bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy comfort food throughout the week. With a few simple storage tips, you can keep leftovers fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• If possible, store the bacon separately to maintain its crispiness.

Freezing

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, ensuring as much air is removed as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

Can I make this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can omit the bacon entirely or substitute it with plant-based bacon alternatives for a vegetarian-friendly version.

How can I customize my Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe?

You can add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition, or switch up the cheeses according to your preference!

What other pasta shapes work well for this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe?

While medium pasta shells are great, any short pasta like elbow macaroni or cavatappi will work wonderfully in this recipe.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor twist.

Final Thoughts

This Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. The combination of creamy cheese and crispy bacon makes it truly special. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Gather your loved ones around the table and savor every bite together. Happy cooking!