Smoky Bacon Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food we all know and love. With a blend of sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and crispy bacon, this dish adds a smoky depth of flavor that's hard to resist. Perfect for cozy nights or bringing a crowd-pleasing dish to a potluck.
Elbow macaroni is the ideal pasta choice for this dish, capturing all that creamy sauce in its tiny tubes. Unsalted butter helps create the roux, which is the base for our cheese sauce, allowing us to control the saltiness. A bit of flour thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency, while whole milk ensures a rich, luscious base. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and smoked gouda cheese brings a sharp yet smoky flavor profile. Bacon adds a delightful crunch and smoky depth. Finally, the smoked paprika and garlic powder enhance the smoky flavor, while salt and pepper round it all out to taste.
This Smoky Bacon Mac and Cheese pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. It's also great served alongside grilled chicken or ribs for a hearty meal.
First, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the macaroni and set it aside. While the pasta cooks, fry the bacon slices until they're crispy, then let them cool on a paper towel before crumbling them into bits.
Next, in a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. As soon as it's completely melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth roux. Slowly pour in the whole milk, whisking the mixture constantly to avoid any lumps. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sharp cheddar cheese and smoked gouda cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure each piece of pasta is well-coated. Finally, fold in the crumbled bacon, saving a bit to sprinkle on top for garnish if you like. Serve hot and enjoy!
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