Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is just what you need. It’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly indulgent. This is a recipe that has been passed down in my family, perfect for everything from cozy weeknight dinners to lively family gatherings. Trust me, once you make this dish, it will become a staple in your home just like it has in mine.

There’s something special about the combination of gooey cheese and crispy bacon that makes this meal so satisfying. Plus, it’s easy enough to whip up on a busy evening but impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, so you can enjoy delicious homemade mac and cheese without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family Favorite: With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and simply bake before serving—perfect for busy nights!
• Comfort Food Classic: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of mac and cheese to bring comfort after a long day.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out or add ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! These are the building blocks for our delicious Bacon Mac & Cheese.

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
• 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

This Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey bacon or smoked chicken for a lighter twist.
• Add veggies: Incorporate steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper for an extra kick of heat!
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for unique flavors.

How to Make Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Start by slicing your onions into even ¼-inch slices. Heating butter and olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat is key here; adding the onions allows them to caramelize beautifully over 40-50 minutes. Stir them every few minutes to ensure they cook evenly. The sweet flavor of caramelized onions will elevate your dish!

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While your onions are caramelizing, cut your bacon into thirds—this makes it easier to manage as it cooks. In a large skillet over low heat, allow the bacon to cook slowly until crispy on both sides. This step not only adds flavor but also gives you some delightful drippings for later!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Once your bacon is crispy, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on paper towels. Reserve about 4 tablespoons of those tasty drippings (or use butter if needed). Heat those drippings over medium heat and whisk in flour while stirring continuously for two minutes—this forms your roux! Gradually add heavy cream followed by milk; stirring continuously ensures a smooth sauce.

Step 4: Add Seasoning

After bringing your sauce mixture to a boil, lower it to a simmer. Add mustard powder, thyme, garlic powder, and hot sauce; these ingredients bring depth and flavor that makes this mac & cheese unforgettable.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Now’s the time to cook your pasta! Boil salted water for your shells according to package instructions until just al dente—don’t overcook! Drain them well before adding them to your sauce.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Reduce your sauce’s heat to low and sprinkle in those irresistible cheeses gradually while stirring until fully melted together. Toss in those caramelized onions along with drained pasta; mix well until every shell is coated in cheesy goodness.

Step 7: Finish with Bacon

Roughly chop up that crispy bacon we set aside earlier and sprinkle it over the top of your mac & cheese. Feel free to stir some into the mix as well if you’re feeling adventurous!

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Finally, garnish with fresh parsley for color before serving up this comforting dish! Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!

Now that you’ve got this easy-to-follow Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe under your belt, I can’t wait for you to share it with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Making the perfect Bacon Mac & Cheese can be a delightful experience, and these tips will ensure your dish turns out creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.

• Use high-quality cheese: Opting for good-quality cheese will enhance the flavor and creaminess of your mac and cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties because it doesn’t contain anti-caking agents.

• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking your pasta just until it’s al dente ensures it maintains its shape and texture when mixed with the cheese sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the final dish.

• Reserve some pasta water: Keeping a cup of the starchy pasta water can help adjust the consistency of your cheese sauce if it’s too thick. Just add a little at a time until you reach your desired creaminess.

• Experiment with cheeses: While gruyere and cheddar are classics, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for an extra kick. Each cheese adds its unique flavor profile!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your mac and cheese to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps it set up a bit more. This makes serving easier and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

This Bacon Mac & Cheese is not just delicious; it’s also visually appealing! Presenting it well can make your meal even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, crushed red pepper flakes can be sprinkled on top to give an extra kick.
• Additional grated cheese: A light dusting of freshly grated parmesan or cheddar on top right before serving makes for an inviting presentation and enhances the cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a comforting combo that’s hard to resist. The crunch complements the creaminess of the mac and cheese perfectly.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness to balance out the richness of the mac and cheese. The crunchy croutons provide an excellent textural contrast.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli or any green vegetable not only offers color but also nutritional value, making your meal feel more balanced.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cheesy pasta, making dinner feel wholesome.

Now that you have all these fantastic tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress everyone with your homemade Bacon Mac & Cheese! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the comforting goodness of this dish throughout the week. Here are some tips to keep it fresh and delicious!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date for easy tracking.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Use a microwave or stovetop; add a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
• Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

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

Absolutely! You can substitute bacon with plant-based alternatives like smoked tempeh or mushrooms for that savory flavor.

How do I make the best Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe creamy?

To maintain creaminess, ensure you add cheese gradually while stirring continuously. A splash of heavy cream during reheating can also help!

What types of cheese work well in this recipe?

While gruyere and cheddar create a great base, feel free to experiment with mozzarella or fontina for added creaminess!

Can I use gluten-free pasta in this Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe?

Yes! Gluten-free pasta works beautifully in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

How can I spice up my Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe?

For a kick, add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. You could also mix in veggies like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe and that it brings warmth and comfort to your table. It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy night in or a family gathering. Enjoy every cheesy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on this classic! Happy cooking!