Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this rich and creamy Bacon Mac and Cheese recipe. Caramelized onions add a gourmet touch to this classic dish, while the combination of gruyere, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses creates a decadent sauce that coats each shell of pasta. Topped with crispy bacon, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Caramelized Onions, Optional
- 2 large yellow onions
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Mac and Cheese
- 6 strips thick-cut bacon, hickory smoked
- 1 lb. medium pasta shells
- 1/4 cup butter (not needed if you have enough bacon drippings)
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 cup gruyere cheese, shredded
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions – 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 reduce and caramelize for 40-50 minutes, stirring every few minutes. Reduce heat to low if they start to cook too fast. When they’re caramelized, remove and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon – Cut the bacon into thirds for even cooking. Cook in a skillet over low heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel lined plate. Reserve 4 Tablespoons of bacon drippings.
- Make the Sauce/Cook the Pasta – Heat bacon drippings, whisk in flour, then add cream and milk. Add seasonings and bring to a simmer. Cook pasta al dente, then add to the sauce with cheese and onions. Stir until combined. Top with chopped bacon.
- Garnish with parsley and serve!
Notes
- Shred the cheese from a block for better melting.
- Ensure the sauce base isn’t too hot when adding cheese.
- You can omit caramelized onions if desired.
- Quality, thick-cut bacon is recommended.
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approx. 550 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
