Name: Bacon Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 Servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb Bacon; 1 tbsp Canola oil; 0.25 cup Flour; 2 cups Milk; 1 tsp Salt; 0.5 tsp Pepper; 4 ounces Processed cheese; 1 cup cheddar cheese; 1 lb Pasta

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Bacon Mac and Cheese

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Ingredients

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Instructions

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Instructions

In a large pot, prepare pasta according to package directions.

Meanwhile, in large skillet, heat canola oil over medium-high heat.

Cut bacon in small pieces and cook in skillet until crispy (about 7 minutes).

Remove cooked bacon from skilled and drain on paper towels.

Reserve ¼ cup of bacon fat; discard the rest of the bacon fat.

Add reserved bacon fat back into the skillet.

Add flour and stir for one minute until it starts to gets pasty.

Whisk in the milk. Continue to cook over medium-low heat, whisking occasionally, until the milk begins to thicken — about 5 minutes.

Add cheese, salt and pepper and stir until cheese is melted.

Add cooked and drained pasta and stir to combine.

Stir in cooked bacon

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Prevent Grainy Cheese Sauce 🧈
Keep your heat at medium or below when adding cheese, and stir constantly. High heat causes the cheese proteins to seize and separate, creating a grainy texture instead of that silky finish.
Render Bacon Properly for Maximum Flavor 🥓
Cook bacon slowly over medium heat until it's crispy and has released all its fat. Reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon grease to make your roux—this adds incredible depth that canola oil alone cannot provide.
Use a Cheese Blend for Superior Texture 🧀
Combine sharp cheddar with your processed cheese in a 3:1 ratio. The processed cheese ensures creaminess while the sharp cheddar provides bold flavor and prevents the sauce from breaking.
Temper Your Milk Before Mixing 🥛
Heat your milk separately before whisking it into the roux to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth sauce that comes together quickly and evenly.
Finish with a Pinch of Smoked Paprika 🌶️
Just before serving, add ¼ teaspoon of smoked paprika to enhance the bacon's smoky notes and add subtle complexity that elevates the entire dish.