Bacon Gravy Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Bacon gravy mac and cheese: just the name alone conjures up images of creamy, cheesy, smoky, and utterly decadent comfort food, doesn’t it? Forget everything you thought you knew about mac and cheese because this isn’t your grandma’s recipe (unless your grandma was secretly a culinary genius with a penchant for pork!). This dish takes the classic, beloved mac and cheese and elevates it to a whole new level of indulgence.

Mac and cheese, in its simplest form, has roots stretching back to medieval Europe, evolving from pasta and cheese casseroles. However, the addition of bacon gravy is a distinctly modern twist, a testament to our enduring love affair with all things bacon. It’s a celebration of American comfort food, amplified with the rich, savory goodness of bacon.

Why do people adore this dish? Well, the answer is multifaceted. First, there’s the irresistible combination of textures: the smooth, creamy cheese sauce coating perfectly cooked pasta, contrasted by the crispy, salty bacon bits. Then, there’s the flavor: the sharp cheddar cheese mingling with the smoky bacon gravy creates a symphony of taste that’s both comforting and exciting. And let’s be honest, who can resist the allure of a dish that’s both incredibly satisfying and relatively easy to make? This bacon gravy mac and cheese is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Get ready to experience mac and cheese like never before!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Mac and Cheese:
• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• For the Bacon Gravy:
• 1 pound thick-cut bacon, diced
• 1/4 cup bacon fat (reserved from cooking bacon)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
• Optional Toppings:
• Extra crispy bacon crumbles
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped green onions
• Hot sauce

Preparing the Mac and Cheese:

1. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. This usually takes about 7-8 minutes. Make sure you don’t overcook it, as it will continue to cook in the cheese sauce. Drain the macaroni well and set aside.
2. Make the Roux: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which is the base for our cheese sauce. Be careful not to burn the roux; you want it to be a light golden color. Cooking the roux properly is crucial for a smooth, non-grainy sauce.
3. Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, about 1 cup at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. This prevents lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 5-7 minutes. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
4. Season the Sauce: Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that complements the cheese beautifully.
5. Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar, Gruyere, and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the cheese in batches to ensure it melts evenly and doesn’t clump. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of milk to thin it out.
6. Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat. Make sure all the macaroni is evenly coated in the luscious cheese sauce.

Making the Bacon Gravy:

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve the bacon fat in the skillet. We’ll need some of that delicious bacon fat for the gravy!
2. Make the Roux (Again!): Carefully pour off all but 1/4 cup of the bacon fat from the skillet. If you don’t have enough bacon fat, you can supplement with butter. Heat the bacon fat over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until a light golden roux forms. Again, be careful not to burn it!
3. Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, about 1 cup at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. Continue whisking until the gravy is smooth and thickened, about 5-7 minutes. The gravy should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
4. Season the Gravy: Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember that the bacon is already salty, so be careful not to over-salt the gravy. The cayenne pepper adds a subtle kick, but you can omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.
5. Add the Bacon: Stir in most of the cooked bacon crumbles, reserving some for garnish. This is where the magic happens! The bacon infuses the gravy with its smoky, savory flavor.

Assembling the Bacon Gravy Mac and Cheese:

1. Combine Mac and Cheese and Bacon Gravy: Gently fold the bacon gravy into the mac and cheese. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain some texture. You can either mix it all together or layer it for a more visually appealing presentation.
2. Serve: Serve the bacon gravy mac and cheese immediately. Garnish with the reserved crispy bacon crumbles, chopped fresh parsley (if using), extra shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce (if desired).

Tips and Variations:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the mac and cheese. Fontina, Gouda, and Havarti are all great options.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce or bacon gravy for extra heat.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in some cooked broccoli, cauliflower, or peas for added nutrients and flavor.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the mac and cheese and bacon gravy separately ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat them gently and combine.
• Bake it: For a baked version, transfer the assembled mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
• Smoked Bacon: Using smoked bacon will add a deeper, richer flavor to the gravy.
• Cream Cheese: Adding 2-4 ounces of cream cheese to the cheese sauce will make it extra creamy and tangy.
• Different Pasta Shapes: While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other pasta shapes like shells, cavatappi, or rotini.

Enjoy!

This Bacon Gravy Mac and Cheese is a decadent and comforting dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. The combination of creamy mac and cheese with savory bacon gravy is simply irresistible. I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just mac and cheese; it’s a culinary experience. The smoky, savory depth of the bacon gravy elevates this classic comfort food to a whole new level. The creamy, cheesy sauce, perfectly coating every elbow macaroni, combined with the salty, crispy bacon crumbles, creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will have you craving more. Trust me, this bacon gravy mac and cheese is a must-try for anyone who appreciates a truly decadent and satisfying meal.

But the beauty of this recipe lies not only in its deliciousness but also in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A sharp cheddar will provide a bolder flavor, while Gruyere will add a nutty complexity. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the gravy or incorporating some diced jalapeños into the cheese sauce.

Serving Suggestions:

* As a Main Course: Serve a generous portion of this bacon gravy mac and cheese as a hearty and satisfying main course. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
* As a Side Dish: This mac and cheese also makes an excellent side dish for grilled meats, such as steak or chicken. Its creamy texture and savory flavor complement the smoky char of the grill perfectly.
* Elevate the Experience: For an extra touch of elegance, try topping the mac and cheese with toasted breadcrumbs or a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.
* Make it a Bake: Pour the prepared mac and cheese into a baking dish, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. This creates a delightful crust and adds another layer of texture.
* Bacon Variations: Experiment with different types of bacon! Try using maple-smoked bacon for a touch of sweetness, or peppered bacon for a spicy kick. You can even use pancetta for a more Italian-inspired flavor.
* Vegetarian Option: While the star of the show is bacon, you can adapt this recipe for a vegetarian audience. Use smoked paprika and a touch of liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor of bacon. Add some sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra depth of flavor.

I truly believe that this recipe will become a new favorite in your household. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, a potluck gathering, or any occasion that calls for a comforting and delicious meal. The rich, creamy texture and the irresistible flavor of bacon will have everyone asking for seconds.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I’m confident that you’ll love this bacon gravy mac and cheese as much as I do.

And most importantly, don’t forget to share your experience! I’d love to hear about your variations, your serving suggestions, and how much your family and friends enjoyed this recipe. Tag me in your photos on social media, or leave a comment below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy cooking!