Bacon Mac & Cheese (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Caramelized Onions (Optional)
01 -
2 large yellow onions
02 -
2 tablespoons butter
03 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
→ Mac and Cheese
04 -
6 strips thick-cut bacon, hickory smoked
05 -
1 lb. medium pasta shells
06 -
1/4 cup butter (not needed if you have enough bacon drippings)
07 -
1/4 cup flour
08 -
1 cup heavy cream
09 -
2 cups milk
10 -
1 teaspoon mustard powder
11 -
½ teaspoon dried thyme
12 -
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
13 -
1 teaspoon hot sauce
14 -
1 cup gruyere cheese, shredded
15 -
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
16 -
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
→ Garnish
17 -
Parsley
# Instructions:
01 -
Slice the onions into even, ¼-inch slices. Heat the butter and olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and toss to coat. Let them reduce and caramelize for 40-50 minutes, stirring every few minutes. Reduce heat to low if they start to cook too fast. When they’re caramelized, remove and set aside.
02 -
Cut the bacon into thirds. Add them to a large, high-walled skillet over low heat and let them cook low and slow until crispy on each side. Remove and set aside on a paper towel lined plate. Reserve 4 Tablespoons of bacon drippings. Use butter in place of drippings if you don’t have enough.
03 -
Heat the bacon drippings over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and stir continuously for 2 minutes. Add the heavy cream in splashes, stirring continuously. Add the milk in the same manner. Add the mustard powder, thyme, garlic powder, and hot sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook the pasta until just al dente (refer to package instructions), don’t overcook. Drain.
04 -
Reduce the heat of the sauce to low and let the base cool slightly. Gradually sprinkle in the cheese, stirring continuously until incorporated. Add the caramelized onions, then the drained pasta. Use a silicone spatula to stir until combined.
05 -
Roughly chop the bacon and sprinkle it over the mac and cheese. You may stir some of it in as well. Garnish with parsley and serve!