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Creamy Mac and Cheese with Bacon and Green Onions is the ultimate comfort food that brings together rich flavors and textures in one satisfying bowl. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, combining the gooey goodness of cheese with crispy bacon and a fresh kick from green onions. Get ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy delight that’ll make your taste buds sing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy mac and cheese is not just another pasta dish; it’s a flavor-packed experience! With its crispy bacon topping and vibrant green onions, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comforting and Filling: A hearty meal that satisfies.
- Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients for a twist.
- Cheesy Goodness: Who can resist creamy, melted cheese?
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions (plus extra for garnish)
How to Make Creamy Mac and Cheese with Bacon
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble into pieces.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, whisking constantly to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the garlic powder, black pepper, and salt to the milk mixture. Stir to combine.
- Remove the skillet from heat and gradually mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until well coated.
- Stir in the crumbled bacon and sliced green onions, reserving some green onions for garnish.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional green onions and extra cheese if desired.
Tips for the Best Results
- For extra creaminess, use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or gouda along with cheddar.
- Make sure to stir the cheese sauce constantly while it thickens to avoid lumps.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; you want it to hold its shape when mixed with the cheese sauce.
Easy Variations
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Mix in steamed broccoli or spinach for a veggie-packed version.
- Spice it up with jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick.
What to Serve With It
- A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread for a crunchy side.
- Roasted vegetables for a healthy balance.
- A side of coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
Storage and Reheating
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Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can add a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
Recipe Card
Recipe Name: Creamy Mac and Cheese with Bacon and Green Onions
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble into pieces.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, whisking constantly to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the garlic powder, black pepper, and salt to the milk mixture. Stir to combine.
- Remove the skillet from heat and gradually mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until well coated.
- Stir in the crumbled bacon and sliced green onions, reserving some green onions for garnish.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional green onions and extra cheese if desired.
Notes: For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of cream or more cheese when reheating leftovers.
