There’s something comforting about a good ol’ bowl of mac and cheese, isn’t there? I mean, it’s practically the culinary equivalent of a warm hug—a delightful mix of cheesy goodness, hearty pasta, and, in this case, the smokey richness of bacon that takes it to a whole new level! Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese has become one of my go-to comfort foods, especially during those cozy movie nights or when the weather outside is less than inviting.
I remember the first time I decided to elevate my classic mac and cheese recipe with bacon and smoked Gouda. It was a chilly fall evening, and I wanted something that would not only fill our bellies but also warm our hearts. I whipped this up, and let me tell you, the moment my friends took their first bites, there was a magical silence—each of them savoring every cheesy, smoky mouthful. That let me know I had struck gold in the kitchen!
What’s in Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese?
– **Medium Shell Pasta:** These little pasta shells are perfect for holding onto all that creamy cheese sauce. If you don’t have shells, any pasta will do, but they do add a special touch!
– **Bacon:** The star of the show! I love using thick-cut bacon for that hearty crunch and robust flavor. Plus, who can resist bacon?
– **Unsalted Butter:** This adds a rich base to the cheese sauce. The unsalted kind allows you to control the seasoning better.
– **All-Purpose Flour:** This is what helps create a beautiful roux that thickens the cheese sauce into creamy perfection.
– **Milk:** I usually go for whole or 2% for that extra creaminess. But if you’re feeling adventurous, try using a blend of milk and cream for a richer flavor!
– **Sharp Cheddar Cheese:** The classic choice for mac and cheese! The sharpness really adds a punch of flavor that balances out the richness of the other ingredients.
– **Smoked Gouda Cheese:** This cheese brings that smoky dimension that elevates this dish. If you can find it, definitely use smoked!
– **Smoked Paprika:** A little spice goes a long way! It enhances the smoky flavor without overpowering the dish.
– **Garlic Powder:** Because who doesn’t love garlic? It adds that savory depth to the cheese sauce.
– **Salt and Black Pepper:** Essential for seasoning your dish to perfection.
– **Fresh Parsley:** This is optional, but I love to sprinkle some on top for a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast.
Is Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health aspect of this indulgent dish. Sure, it’s comfort food at its finest, but it’s not exactly a salad! **Bacon** does have that delicious savory flavor, but moderation is key. On the brighter side, **Pasta** is a great source of carbohydrates, fueling your energy for the day. And don’t forget **Milk** offers calcium and protein, while the combination of **Cheddar** and **Gouda** packs in tons of delicious flavor along with some beneficial fats. Now, if you’re looking for healthier twists, you could consider using whole grain pasta and reducing the amount of cheese or bacon—though let’s be real, where’s the fun in that?
Ingredients
– 8 ounces medium shell pasta
– 6 slices of bacon, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese?
1. **Cook the Pasta**: Grab a large pot and bring salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in the shell pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. **Cook the Bacon**: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy—it should take about 6-8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave about 1 tablespoon of that glorious bacon grease in the skillet.
3. **Make the Sauce**: Add the butter to the skillet with the bacon grease over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a roux.
4. **Add Milk**: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
5. **Incorporate Cheeses**: Lower the heat to low and stir in both the cheddar and Gouda cheeses, along with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is deliciously creamy.
6. **Combine Pasta and Bacon**: Add your cooked shell pasta and crispy bacon to the cheese sauce, stirring until everything is completely coated.
7. **Serve**: Dive right in and serve hot! For a little something extra, garnish with chopped parsley if you like.
Let’s Make It Extra Special!
This Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese can be taken to the next level! For a crunchy finish, you can bake it. Just transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish, sprinkle some extra cheese and breadcrumbs on top, and pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until it’s golden and bubbly. Trust me, it’s well worth the extra effort!
So there you have it, my friends! Whether it’s a chilly night in or a cozy gathering with some loved ones, this Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese is bound to bring some warmth and joy to your table. I hope you give this recipe a try—I’d love to hear how it turns out! Happy cooking!
