Indulge your taste buds with a creamy, cheesy delight that combines the comforting goodness of macaroni and cheese with the savory crunch of bacon! This Macaroni Cheese with Bacon recipe is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a dish that serves 6 and transports you straight to the heart of Italian comfort food. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or craving a cozy night in, this recipe promises to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Ready to dive into the cheesy goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces macaroni
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 ounces of macaroni, 4 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of butter, 2 tablespoons of flour, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Once boiling, add the macaroni and a pinch of salt. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the macaroni is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. It should be slightly golden and bubbly.
- Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to whisk. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 5 minutes. Make sure there are no lumps.
- Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- After the macaroni is cooked, drain it well and return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and mix until all the pasta is well coated.
- Gently fold in the crumbled bacon, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the macaroni and cheese.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you prefer a baked version, transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
- For an extra crispy topping, you can sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top, and optionally, some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Macaroni Cheese with Bacon!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To achieve the ideal texture, cook your macaroni just until al dente. This ensures it holds up well when mixed with the cheese sauce and prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Make a Smooth Sauce: When preparing the cheese sauce, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. A smooth, creamy sauce is key to a delicious macaroni and cheese.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is a classic, feel free to mix it up! Try adding a blend of cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a richer flavor profile.
- Bacon Boost: For an even heartier dish, consider using thick-cut bacon or pancetta. The extra flavor will elevate your macaroni cheese to gourmet status.
- Crispy Topping: If you love a crunchy topping, add a layer of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with a bit of melted butter before baking. This adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Personalize It: Don’t hesitate to customize your macaroni cheese! Add in veggies like spinach or broccoli, or spice it up with jalapeños for a kick.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow your baked macaroni cheese to cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve.With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a mouthwatering Macaroni Cheese with Bacon that will leave everyone asking for your secret recipe!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 65mg
