Bacon Mac and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese, often lovingly referred to as mac and cheese, holds a special place in the hearts of food lovers around the world. This creamy, cheesy dish has long been a staple in American cuisine, cherished for its comforting qualities and nostalgic flavors. From childhood lunches to sophisticated dinner parties, mac and cheese has a versatile appeal that transcends age and occasion. Whether baked to golden perfection or stirred up fresh from the stovetop, its cheesy goodness is hard to resist.

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Bacon Bliss Mac & Cheese! This creamy, cheesy delight is elevated by crispy thick-cut bacon, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Learn how to whip up this mouthwatering dish with easy step-by-step instructions and discover the key ingredients that make it truly special. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights, this recipe is sure to impress. #MacAndCheese #ComfortFood #BaconLovers #Foodie #RecipeIdeas

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Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni

6 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Bacon:

- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

- In the same skillet with bacon grease, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly golden.

- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens and starts to simmer, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Cheeses and Seasoning:

- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until completely melted and smooth.

- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing well to coat all the pasta. Stir in the crispy bacon, reserving a few pieces for garnishing later.

Optional Baking Step:

- If you prefer a baked Mac and Cheese, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.

- Top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping, and sprinkle any reserved bacon on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

Serve:

- Once done, remove from the oven (if baked) and let sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your Bacon Bliss Mac & Cheese!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6