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Savory Smoked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Bacon Crust

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A comforting and quick mac and cheese recipe featuring a smoky cheese sauce and a crispy smoked bacon crust, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 8 slices thick-cut smoked bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, cook thick-cut smoked bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Drain on paper towels and chop roughly. Set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Once melted and bubbling, whisk in all-purpose flour. Keep whisking continuously for about 2 minutes until golden and nutty.
  4. Slowly pour in warmed whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Lower heat to medium-low. Gradually add shredded sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and softened cream cheese. Stir until cheeses melt smoothly into the sauce.
  6. Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
  7. Transfer drained macaroni to an oven-safe baking dish. Pour cheese sauce over pasta and stir gently to coat.
  8. Evenly sprinkle chopped crispy smoked bacon over the top.
  9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bacon crust is bubbly and golden.
  10. Let mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; al dente holds better in sauce and bake. Warm milk before adding to avoid lumps. Add bacon crust last to keep it crispy. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and texture. For gluten-free, substitute flour and pasta accordingly. Reheat leftovers in oven to maintain bacon crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked mac and cheese, bacon crust, comfort food, quick dinner, cheesy pasta, smoky flavor

Find it online: https://tempotaste.com/savory-smoked-mac-and-cheese-with-crispy-bacon-crust-easy-recipe/