Get ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy delight that will take your comfort food game to the next level! Our Bacon Mac Cheese with Wisconsin Gruyere is not just any mac and cheese; it’s a luxurious twist on a classic favorite that combines the rich flavors of crispy bacon and the nutty, smooth goodness of Gruyere cheese. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. Trust us, one bite of this cheesy masterpiece, and you'll be hooked! Ready to dive into the recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g elbow macaroni
- 150g bacon, chopped
- 2 cups milk
- 200g Gruyere cheese, grated
- 50g breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 200g elbow macaroni, 150g chopped bacon, 2 cups of milk, 200g grated Gruyere cheese, 50g breadcrumbs, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the macaroni is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, reduce the heat to low. Add the 2 cups of milk and bring it to a gentle simmer. Be careful not to let it boil.
- Gradually add the grated Gruyere cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the cheese sauce in the skillet. Stir well to combine, ensuring that all the pasta is coated with the cheesy goodness.
- Fold in the crispy bacon pieces into the mac and cheese mixture, mixing thoroughly to distribute the bacon evenly.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil or melted butter, mixing until the breadcrumbs are lightly coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Bacon Mac Cheese with Wisconsin Gruyere!
Tips
- Choose Quality Cheese: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality Gruyere cheese. Its unique nuttiness will elevate your mac and cheese to gourmet status.
- Don’t Skip the Breadcrumbs: Adding breadcrumbs on top not only provides a delightful crunch but also enhances the overall texture of the dish. For extra flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan with the breadcrumbs.
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Make sure to cook the elbow macaroni until it's al dente. This ensures that the pasta holds its shape and texture when mixed with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Bacon Drippings Magic: Use the leftover bacon drippings to make your cheese sauce. It adds a rich, smoky flavor that complements the Gruyere beautifully.
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow the mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the dish set and makes it easier to serve.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add in your favorite ingredients, such as sautéed vegetables, different types of cheese, or spices for an extra kick!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 620kcal
Carbohydrates: 51g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 106mg
