Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese

why make this recipe

Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese combines two beloved comfort foods into one delightful dish. The crispy bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor that takes the traditional mac and cheese to a whole new level. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. Plus, who doesn’t love the irresistible combination of cheese and bacon?

how to make Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 4 slices thick-cut smoked bacon
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

Directions:

1. Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and drain it on paper towels.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour for about one minute.
4. Gradually add the milk while whisking until the mixture is smooth and thickened (this takes about 5 minutes).
5. Stir in the shredded cheese until it is melted. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper.
6. Combine the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon with the cheese sauce.
7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs and bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly.

how to serve Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese

Serve Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese hot, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables. You can also add extra crispy bacon on top for those who love more crunchy bits.

how to store Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving again.

tips to make Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese

• Use high-quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor.
• For an added crunch, mix in some chopped crispy fried onions with the panko breadcrumbs.
• If you like a little spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños into the cheese sauce.

variation

You can customize this dish by adding different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist. You can also mix in cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, you can use turkey bacon if you want a lighter version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, just bake it as directed.

What is the best type of cheese for mac and cheese?
Sharp cheddar is a great choice for flavor, but feel free to mix it with other cheeses like gouda or parmesan for added complexity.

Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese

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A delightful dish combining crispy bacon and creamy mac and cheese, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.

• Total Time: 45
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 4 slices thick-cut smoked bacon
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and drain it on paper towels.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour for about one minute.
4. Gradually add the milk while whisking until the mixture is smooth and thickened (about 5 minutes).
5. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper.
6. Combine the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon with the cheese sauce.
7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs and bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly.

Notes

For extra flavor, use high-quality cheddar cheese. You can add crispy fried onions to the topping for an added crunch.

• Author: nevaeh-hall
• Prep Time: 15
• Cook Time: 30
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Meat

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 50mg