Mac and Cheese with Bacon
A decadent, cheesy macaroni dish with a crispy, golden-brown top and smoky bacon throughout. This mac and cheese can be prepared on the stovetop and finished either on the grill or in the oven for that perfect crispy crust.
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 8 oz bacon chopped
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups shredded cheese blend
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese divided
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp chives for garnish
Instructions
- Cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook bacon until crispy. Remove bacon, leave fat in pan.
- Add butter to bacon fat, then whisk in flour to make a roux.. Gradually add milk and cream, stirring until thickened.
- Stir in 3 cups cheese blend, 1/2 cup Parmesan, and seasonings.
- Fold in macaroni and 3/4 of the bacon. Top with panko, remaining cheese, and Parmesan.
Grilling
- Preheat the grill to 375-400°F
- Place skillet on indirect heat, Grill 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly
- Top with remaining bacon and chives
Oven (400°F)
- If your using the oven preheat to 400°F Bake 20-25 minutes until golden, then broil 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness
- Top with remaining bacon and chives