Get ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy delight that takes comfort food to the next level! Our Mac and Cheese with Bacon and Peas is not just any ordinary mac and cheese; it’s a savory masterpiece that combines the rich flavors of sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and sweet peas. In just 45 minutes, you can create a dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether it's a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this deliciously cheesy adventure that promises to satisfy your cravings!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Add elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy and golden brown, stirring occasionally. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess grease.
- In the same skillet with bacon drippings, add butter and melt over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Gradually pour in milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese is completely melted and sauce is creamy.
- Season cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Add frozen peas and stir to combine.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix thoroughly, ensuring pasta is evenly coated.
- Fold in crispy bacon pieces, reserving some for garnish if desired.
- Transfer mac and cheese to serving dishes and sprinkle remaining bacon on top. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the elbow macaroni just until al dente. This ensures it holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce.
- Crispy Bacon: For the best flavor, cook the bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown. The rendered bacon fat adds a delicious depth to the cheese sauce.
- Smooth Sauce: When making the roux, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. Gradually adding the milk helps create a silky smooth cheese sauce.
- Cheese Choices: While sharp cheddar is recommended for its bold flavor, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a unique twist.
- Peas Perfection: If you prefer fresh peas, you can use them instead of frozen. Just blanch them for a couple of minutes before adding to the sauce.
- Bacon Garnish: Reserve a bit of crispy bacon for garnishing before mixing it into the mac and cheese. It adds a nice touch when serving!
- Leftover Love: This dish reheats well, so don’t hesitate to make extra for leftovers. Just add a splash of milk when reheating to keep it creamy.Enjoy your cooking and prepare for a delightful meal that brings smiles to the table!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 580kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 95mg
