Bacon Mac & Cheese
A comforting and flavorful dish combining crispy bacon, creamy cheeses, and pasta shells for a delightful meal perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Pasta and Base Ingredients
- 1 lb medium pasta shells Shells are perfect for capturing all that creamy goodness.
- 2 large yellow onions Caramelized onions add a delightful depth of flavor!
- 2 tablespoons butter Keeps things from burning and gives a nice, smooth buttery finish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Used to caramelize the onions.
- 6 strips thick-cut bacon Hickory smoked is great for flavor.
Cheese Sauce Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter Not needed if you have enough bacon drippings.
- 1/4 cup flour Helps thicken the cheese sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream Provides ultra-creamy texture.
- 2 cups milk Whole milk is best, but any kind will do.
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder Adds a lovely tangy flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme Brightens the dish with earthiness.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder A must-have for aromatic warmth.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce Add more for extra kick.
- 1 cup gruyere cheese, shredded Brings depth with its nutty flavor.
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded Sharp cheddar for stronger taste.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded Sprinkle this on top to elevate the dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the onions into even, ¼-inch slices.
- Heat the butter and olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and toss to coat. Let them caramelize for 40-50 minutes, stirring every few minutes.
- While the onions cook, cut the bacon into thirds and cook in a large skillet over low heat until crispy. Reserve 4 tablespoons of the bacon drippings.
- Start boiling salted water for the pasta shells.
Making the Sauce
- Heat the reserved bacon drippings over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes. Gradually add the heavy cream, stirring continuously.
- Once the heavy cream is mixed, add the milk gradually while stirring.
- Season the sauce with mustard powder, thyme, garlic powder, and hot sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer.
Cooking Pasta
- Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Reduce the sauce heat to low, and gradually add the cheeses, stirring until melted.
Combining Ingredients
- Add caramelized onions and drained pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir until combined.
- Add roughly chopped bacon and mix well.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
Serve with a fresh side salad or pair with white wine or light beer. For make-ahead, store cheese sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheat before combining with fresh pasta.