Description
Creamy Bacon Mac & Cheese
Ingredients:
12 oz rotini pasta (or any pasta of choice)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.Add flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a roux.Pour in heavy cream and milk, whisking continuously until thickened.Add cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring until cheese is fully melted and smooth.Combine cooked pasta with cheese sauce and mix well.Top with crumbled bacon and optional toasted panko breadcrumbs.Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
#BaconMacAndCheese #CheesyComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, cook your pasta in well-salted water until al dente, then drain. While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk constantly for a full minute to cook out the raw flour taste, creating a pale roux. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until each addition is fully melted and smooth before adding more. Stir in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Combine the cheese sauce with the drained pasta in a large bowl, ensuring every piece is coated. Transfer to a serving dish and top immediately with crumbled bacon. For a crispy topping, mix panko breadcrumbs with a teaspoon of melted butter and toast in a small pan until golden before sprinkling over the bacon. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy mac and cheese is a hearty main dish but pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a classic comfort food plate, add steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or garlic bread. It also makes an exceptional side dish for grilled chicken, meatloaf, or barbecue ribs.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook pasta. Make a roux with butter and flour. Whisk in dairy to create a béchamel. Melt cheese into the sauce to create a Mornay. Combine sauce and pasta. Top with bacon and optional crispy breadcrumbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different cheeses? Absolutely. Gruyère, Gouda, or Fontina are excellent for melting. Always shred cheese from a block for the smoothest sauce.
How do I prevent a grainy sauce? Avoid high heat when adding cheese, as it can cause the fats to separate. Use freshly shredded cheese, as pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce and pasta separately, storing them in the fridge for up to a day. Combine and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
What if my sauce is too thick? Simply thin it out by whisking in additional warm milk, a tablespoon at a time, until your desired consistency is reached.
Can I bake this mac and cheese? Yes. After combining, transfer to a greased baking dish, add toppings, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using pre-shredded cheese, which can lead to a clumpy, grainy sauce.
- Adding cheese to a boiling sauce base, which causes separation.
- Underseasoning the sauce. Always taste and adjust after the cheese has melted.
- Overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to soften in the hot sauce.
- Not whisking constantly when making the roux and adding milk, which results in lumps.
Conclusion
This Creamy Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food experience by combining a luxuriously smooth, homemade cheese sauce with the savory crunch of bacon. Mastering the simple roux-based technique opens the door to countless variations. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings, guaranteed to satisfy any cheesy craving.