White Cheddar Bacon Mac and Cheese
Description:
This White Cheddar Bacon Mac and Cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and rich with the smoky goodness of crispy bacon, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. With the smooth texture of melted white cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, every bite is indulgent and satisfying. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner, a potluck dish, or a holiday treat, this mac and cheese is sure to impress!
Ingredients 🛒:
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1 lb elbow macaroni (or any pasta you prefer) 🍝
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4 strips bacon (cooked and crumbled) 🥓
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2 tbsp butter 🧈
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour 🌾
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2 cups milk 🥛
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2 cups white cheddar cheese (shredded) 🧀
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1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated) 🧀
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1/2 tsp garlic powder 🧄
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1/2 tsp onion powder 🧅
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Salt & pepper to taste 🧂
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Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) 🌿
Instructions 🍳:
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
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Cook the bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon strips over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet, crumble it, and set it aside.
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Make the roux: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, making sure it bubbles but doesn’t brown.
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Add milk and thicken: Slowly add the milk to the roux while whisking continuously. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add cheese: Stir in the white cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, mixing until fully melted and smooth.
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Season: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
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Add bacon: Stir in the crumbled bacon until evenly distributed throughout the pasta.
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Serve: Transfer the mac and cheese to serving bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking & Prep Time:
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations:
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Add Vegetables: For a healthier twist, add sautéed spinach, broccoli, or peas to your mac and cheese.
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Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
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Bacon Substitutes: Swap bacon for crispy pancetta, turkey bacon, or sausage for different flavors.
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Creamier Sauce: Use heavy cream instead of milk for an extra creamy sauce.
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Different Cheese: Try using a combination of cheddar, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for varied cheese flavors.
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Baked Mac and Cheese: For a crunchy topping, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until golden.
Serving Tips:
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Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and freshness.
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Pairing: Serve with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
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Keep It Warm: If serving at a party, keep the mac and cheese warm in a slow cooker on low heat, stirring occasionally.
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Leftovers: This dish reheats wonderfully in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to bring the sauce back to life.
20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
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Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe? Yes, you can easily swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta.
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What other cheeses can I use? You can experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or a sharp cheddar for more flavor.
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Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare it the night before and bake it just before serving.
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How do I make this dish spicier? Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños to the sauce.
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Can I use frozen bacon? Yes, you can use frozen bacon, but make sure to thaw and cook it thoroughly.
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Can I use plant-based milk and cheese? Absolutely! Use almond or oat milk and dairy-free cheeses for a plant-based version.
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Can I use pre-shredded cheese? Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a smoother sauce.
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Is this mac and cheese kid-friendly? Yes, the creamy texture and mild flavor are perfect for kids.
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How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the mac and cheese. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
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What can I use instead of bacon? Try pancetta, turkey bacon, or even crumbled sausage.
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Can I make this mac and cheese healthier? Swap the butter for olive oil and use low-fat cheese and milk for a lighter version.
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How do I get a creamy texture? Be sure to whisk the milk into the roux slowly, and add the cheese gradually to avoid clumps.
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Can I add other proteins? Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or ground beef would be great additions.
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How can I make this more indulgent? Add more cheese or top it with fried onions for extra crunch.
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Can I serve this for Thanksgiving or Christmas? Absolutely! It makes a delicious and comforting side dish for the holidays.
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Can I make a spicy mac and cheese? Yes, try adding hot sauce or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
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Can I make this mac and cheese on the stovetop? Yes, this recipe is designed for stovetop cooking, making it quick and easy.
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How can I make this dish more flavorful? Try adding a splash of Dijon mustard or smoked paprika for added depth.
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Is it okay to use regular cheddar instead of white cheddar? Yes, regular cheddar works perfectly fine too, though white cheddar gives it a nice creamy color.
20 Best Tips for Making Perfect Mac and Cheese:
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Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt.
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Gradually add the milk to the roux to avoid lumps.
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Season your sauce well, especially with salt and pepper.
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Don’t overcook your pasta—cook it al dente for the best texture.
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For extra creaminess, add a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce.
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Use a mix of cheeses for more depth of flavor.
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Reserve a bit of pasta water to help thin the sauce if needed.
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Bacon is essential for that crispy, smoky flavor—don’t skip it!
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If baking, top with breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
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For the best texture, add cheese in batches, stirring constantly.
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Make sure your skillet is at the right temperature before adding the roux.
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Don’t skip the garlic and onion powder; they elevate the flavor.
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Use full-fat milk for the richest sauce.
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For a smoky twist, use smoked cheese or add a little liquid smoke.
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Be sure to cook the flour long enough to make a smooth roux.
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Experiment with adding a dash of white wine or chicken broth for extra flavor.
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Stir the mac and cheese regularly while cooking to prevent the sauce from sticking.
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If the sauce gets too thick, add more milk or cream to thin it out.
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Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, tangy finish.
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Serve immediately after mixing to keep the mac and cheese creamy and hot.
