Mac 'N Cheese with Bacon and Cheese

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Who doesn't love a comforting bowl of mac 'n cheese? It's the ultimate comfort food, bringing back memories of childhood and warm family dinners.

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Mac 'N Cheese with Bacon and Cheese
Prep
20 min
Cook
40 min
Total
1 hr
Servings
6

Method

  1. Fill a pot with water and add salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

  2. Add the macaroni to the boiling water and cook for 8 to 9 minutes, or until it is cooked but still firm. Drain the macaroni.

  3. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

  4. In a small saucepan, warm the milk along with the thyme sprigs and 2 garlic cloves.

  5. In a large, deep skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Gradually whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

  6. Remove the solids from the milk and whisk the milk into the butter and flour mixture. Continue to whisk vigorously and cook until the mixture becomes smooth.

  7. Stir in 4 cups of cheese and continue to cook and stir until the cheese melts. Season with salt and pepper.

  8. Add the cooked macaroni and parsley to the cheese mixture. Fold everything together to coat the macaroni with the cheese mixture.

  9. Transfer the mixture into a 3-quart baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1 1/2 cups of cheese on top.

  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the dish is hot and bubbly.

  11. While the dish is baking, heat a sauté pan. Add the bacon and cook until crispy, rendering the fat.

About this recipe

Who doesn't love a comforting bowl of mac 'n cheese? It's the ultimate comfort food, bringing back memories of childhood and warm family dinners. But what if we take this classic dish and give it a delicious twist? That's right, we're talking about mac 'n cheese with bacon and extra cheese! Prepare yourself for a flavor explosion that will leave you craving for more.

The Magic of Bacon

There's something magical about bacon. Its smoky, savory flavor adds depth and richness to any dish, and mac 'n cheese is no exception. Crispy bacon bits sprinkled over the creamy pasta create a delightful contrast of textures. The bacon grease also infuses the cheese sauce with its irresistible taste. It's a match made in heaven!

Extra Cheese, Please!

Now let's talk about the cheese. Mac 'n cheese already has cheese in it, but why settle for just one kind? Adding extra cheese to the mix takes this dish to a whole new level of cheesy goodness. You can use a combination of your favorite cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyere. The result is a gooey, melty, and oh-so-satisfying bowl of mac 'n cheese.

How to Make Mac 'N Cheese with Bacon and Cheese

Making mac 'n cheese with bacon and cheese is a breeze. Start by cooking the bacon until crispy, then set it aside to cool. In the meantime, prepare the macaroni according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, make a roux by melting butter in a saucepan and whisking in flour. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Crumble the bacon into small pieces and fold it into the cheese sauce. Finally, combine the cooked macaroni with the sauce and give it a good mix. Voila! Your mac 'n cheese with bacon and cheese is ready to be devoured.

Conclusion

Mac 'n cheese with bacon and cheese is a game-changer. The combination of smoky bacon, gooey cheese, and creamy pasta is a match made in culinary heaven. It's a dish that brings comfort and indulgence to a whole new level. So next time you're craving mac 'n cheese, why not take it up a notch and add some bacon and extra cheese? Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use any type of bacon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of bacon you prefer, whether it's crispy bacon, thick-cut bacon, or even turkey bacon.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different combinations of cheeses to find your favorite flavor profile.

Can I add other ingredients to this dish?

Of course! Feel free to add some sautéed onions, garlic, or even vegetables like broccoli or spinach to amp up the flavor and nutritional value.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac 'n cheese with bacon and cheese ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve. Just make sure to store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions or preferences. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the bacon and make a vegetarian version of mac 'n cheese with extra cheese. You can also add some vegetarian bacon substitutes for a similar smoky flavor.

Can I use whole wheat pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use whole wheat pasta if you prefer a healthier option. It will add a nutty flavor and a slightly chewier texture to the dish.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in individual portions for future meals. Just make sure to thaw and reheat them properly before enjoying.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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