Classic Mac and Cheese with Bacon

Classic Mac and Cheese with Bacon is a beloved comfort food that combines creamy cheese sauce with the satisfying crunch of bacon. This timeless dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or a quick weeknight meal. With its rich flavors and gooey texture, it’s no wonder this mac and cheese recipe has become a classic favorite for many.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 550
• Protein: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 50 grams
• Fat: 30 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Sugar: 3 grams
• Sodium: 700 mg

Why Make This Classic Mac and Cheese with Bacon

There are endless reasons to make this Classic Mac and Cheese with Bacon! Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also offers a combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and savory, crispy bacon that will delight anyone who takes a bite. The dish is ideal for both kids and adults, making it a great go-to recipe for family gatherings or simply to satisfy your craving for comfort food. Plus, the aroma of bacon sizzling in the skillet adds an irresistible touch to your kitchen that everyone will appreciate.

How to Make Classic Mac and Cheese with Bacon

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 slices of bacon
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Directions:

• Step 1: Preparation

  Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. This step ensures your pasta is perfectly al dente, ready to hold all that creamy sauce.

• Step 2: Cooking the Bacon

  In a skillet, cook the bacon until it reaches crispy perfection. Once done, remove it from the pan and crumble it into bits, leaving the delicious bacon grease behind for added flavor in your cheesiness.

• Step 3: Making the Cheese Sauce

  In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir well, cooking it for about a minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, forming a luscious, creamy base.

• Step 4: Blending Everything Together

  Once thickened, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix until the cheese melts into the sauce and blends well.

• Step 5: Combine and Serve

  Fold in the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, mixing thoroughly to ensure each piece is coated in that creamy goodness. Finally, stir in the crumbled bacon and serve hot. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!

How to Serve Classic Mac and Cheese with Bacon

This Classic Mac and Cheese with Bacon is best enjoyed hot right after preparation for that creamy texture. You can serve it as a standalone main dish or as a side to grilled meats or vegetables. Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or additional bacon crumbles for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

How to Store Classic Mac and Cheese with Bacon

If you have leftovers (though unlikely!), let the mac and cheese cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if it appears dry.

Expert Tips for Perfect Classic Mac and Cheese with Bacon

• Pasta Choice: While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like shells or penne for different textures.
• Cheese Varieties: For a flavor twist, mix in different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Gruyère alongside cheddar.
• Bacon Options: Try turkey bacon or pancetta for a different take on this dish.
• Pan Sauce: For extra richness, consider baking your mac and cheese in a casserole dish with a breadcrumb topping for a crispy, golden crust.
• Sauce Consistency: If your cheese sauce gets too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.

Delicious Variations

• Veggie Loaded: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach to incorporate veggies and add color.
• Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Truffle Mac: Drizzle with truffle oil before serving for a gourmet touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
  Yes! Substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.

• How can I make this dish vegetarian?
  Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of milk to create a savory cheese sauce with plenty of flavor.

• Can I freeze Classic Mac and Cheese with Bacon?
  While it’s not recommended to freeze the prepared mac and cheese due to the texture changes, you can freeze the sauce and pasta separately.

• What can I do with leftover mac and cheese?
  Transform leftovers into mac and cheese balls by breading them and frying or baking for a fun snack!

• How can I make it creamier?
  The key to creaminess is using a combination of cheeses and ensuring you don’t overcook the pasta, allowing it to soak up the sauce.

Conclusion

Classic Mac and Cheese with Bacon is not just a quick and easy meal; it’s a comforting delight that brings smiles with every cheesy bite. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family dinner or indulging a craving, this dish is sure to please. Don’t hesitate to try making this recipe and experience the joy of rich flavors and satisfying textures—trust me, it will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Classic Mac and Cheese with Bacon

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• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A beloved comfort food combining creamy cheese sauce with the satisfying crunch of bacon, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 slices of bacon
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

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Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into bits.
3. Melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat, add flour, and stir for about a minute.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
6. Fold in the cooked macaroni and crumbled bacon, and serve hot.

Notes

For variations, try mixing in different types of cheese or adding veggies for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 50mg