Smoky four cheese macaroni bake –Get ready to indulge in a creamy, smoky, and utterly delicious dish that combines two beloved comfort foods: mac and cheese and bacon! This Smoky Chipotle Bacon Mac and Cheese is a perfect blend of flavors that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will make your family and friends ask for seconds.
Smoky Chipotle Bacon Mac and Cheese
Feast your eyes on this tantalizing dish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty. It has all the right elements to become your new favorite meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.
- Add the butter to the pot with the bacon drippings and melt it. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until it turns golden brown.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, and continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add the chipotle in adobo sauce, smoked paprika, and the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Mix well until the pasta is evenly coated. Stir in the crispy bacon and season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with panko bread crumbs for added crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Smoky Chipotle Bacon Mac and Cheese!
This dish is not just about taste, but it’s also about bringing people together around the table. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this Smoky Chipotle Bacon Mac and Cheese will surely be a hit!