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Mac & Cheese

Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

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If you’re in the mood for a comforting dish that wraps you in cheesy goodness, this Mac & Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. This creamy delight combines perfectly cooked pasta with a rich cheese sauce, enhanced by the savory flavor of crispy turkey bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a delightful vegetarian option. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, this mac and cheese will quickly become a cherished favorite. The addition of caramelized onions adds a depth of sweetness that elevates this classic comfort food to new heights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large yellow onions
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lb medium pasta shells
  • ¼ cup butter (or reserved turkey bacon drippings)
  • ¼ cup flour
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce
  • 1 cup gruyere cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
  • Crispy turkey bacon or sautéed mushrooms

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Caramelized Onions: Slice onions and caramelize in butter and olive oil over medium heat for about 40-50 minutes until golden brown.
  2. Cook the Turkey Bacon: Cut turkey bacon into thirds and cook low and slow in a skillet until crispy; set aside.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet with reserved drippings, whisk flour into heated fat until bubbly, then gradually add heavy cream and milk while stirring constantly until smooth.
  4. Add Flavorings: Incorporate mustard powder, thyme, garlic powder, and hot sauce; simmer to meld flavors.
  5. Cook Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta shells until al dente; drain but reserve some pasta water.
  6. Combine Everything: Stir cheeses into sauce until melted; fold in caramelized onions and drained pasta shells.
  7. Finish with Turkey Bacon: Mix in or sprinkle crispy turkey bacon on top before serving.
  8. Serve Hot: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

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