Mac and cheese is a dish that was unfamiliar to me until I immigrated here in Canada with my husband and three boys. I soon learned how popular macaroni and cheese is with children and adults. The reason may be because it is a cheap and easy meal to prepare especially if it comes in a box. I have tried mac and cheese from a box and it is a dish that I am not a big fan of. I would rather have a good noodle or rice dish. However, this homemade cheddar bacon mac and cheese dish changed my mind. I used fusilli in this recipe because it was what I had in my pantry but you may use other kinds of short pasta. The creamy sauce that coated the pasta consisted of whipping cream, bacon and of course cheese. I used smoked cheddar cheese in this recipe and it gave this dish a great and delicious taste. I saved some of the cooked bacon and along with sour cream and sliced green onions, used them to garnish this rich and comforting dish. The family enjoyed this hearty and satisfying dish even on the next day. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese

To achieve the creamiest mac and cheese, start by cooking your pasta just until al dente. This means it should have a slight bite to it, as it will continue to cook in the oven or when mixed with the sauce. Using a mix of cheeses can elevate the flavor profile. Sharp cheddar adds a nice tang, while a bit of mozzarella can enhance the creaminess. If you want to incorporate some spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. When combining the pasta and sauce, do it while the sauce is hot so that it clings well to the pasta. This helps create a better texture. Lastly, don’t skip on baking it if you prefer a crispy top. A quick broil for a few minutes at the end can give you that perfect golden crust.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This cheddar bacon mac and cheese is versatile and can be served in many ways. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. Adding a side of garlic bread can also make it a comforting dinner option. If you’re looking to switch things up, try adding vegetables such as steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for some added nutrients and color. For a fun twist, consider incorporating different proteins like shredded rotisserie chicken or even crab for a seafood version. If you want to make it a bit lighter, substitute some of the cream with low-fat milk. You can also experiment with different types of pasta. Although fusilli works great, shapes like elbow macaroni or cavatappi can provide a fun texture. No matter how you serve it, this dish is bound to be a hit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for the smoked cheddar cheese?

If you can’t find smoked cheddar, regular sharp cheddar works great too. You could also mix in some mozzarella for extra creaminess or try gouda for a unique flavor.

How can I store leftovers?

Let the mac and cheese cool down, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to three days, but you might want to reheat it with a splash of cream to bring back the creaminess.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, then cover it and refrigerate for a day. Just bake it when you’re ready, but add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.

What are some good toppings for mac and cheese?

For added crunch, sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking. You can also add crispy fried onions, more bacon, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for some kick.

What mistakes should I avoid when making mac and cheese?

One common mistake is overcooking the pasta, so aim for al dente. Also, don’t rush the cheese melting process; add it gradually to ensure a smooth and creamy sauce.

Cheddar Bacon Mac and Cheese

Liza A

Creamy elbow macaroni meets crispy bacon and smoky cheddar for a comforting dish that’s rich, indulgent, and bursting with flavor. Top it off with sour cream and green onions for a tasty twist!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 35

Total Time 45

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings -6 servings

Calories 1000 kcal

Ingredients

1 lb elbow macaroni fusilli or other short pasta
¾ lb bacon diced (8 thick slices)
3 cups whipping cream
2 cups firmly packed shredded smoked cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Sour cream and thinly sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

Cook pasta in pot of boiling salted water until tender but still firm to bite. Drain (don’t rinse) and return to the pot.
Meanwhile, place a sauté pan over high heat for several minutes. Add the bacon and sauté for 5 minutes, or until browned and crispy (lower heat to prevent scorching). Remove the pan from heat and using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon and drain on paper towels.
Pour off fat from the pan and return pan to medium-high heat. Add the cream and bring to a boil, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of pan. Lower the heat to medium and continue to simmer until the cream has reduced slightly, about 3 minutes.
Add the cheese and bacon. Stir well and cook, stirring occasionally for 3 minutes or until cheese has melted and mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
Stir the sauce into the drained pasta in the pot. Place over medium heat and stir for 1 to 2 minutes to allow pasta to absorb the flavors.
Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions.

Notes

Recipe source: finecooking.com

Nutrition

Calories: 1000kcalCarbohydrates: 80gProtein: 40gFat: 60gSaturated Fat: 30gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 1200mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2g

Keyword bacon, cheesy, comfort food, creamy, pasta

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