Smoky Beef Bacon Mac and Cheese
Indulge in a comforting, elevated classic featuring crispy, halal-certified beef bacon strips folded into a velvety, rich cheddar cheese sauce. This recipe uses a traditional roux-based technique to ensure a silky consistency, paired with perfectly al dente macaroni. The smoky depth from the beef bacon and smoked paprika creates an unmatched textural contrast, making it the ultimate weeknight meal for those who crave a nostalgic, hearty, and satisfying experience without any pork or alcohol-based ingredients.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
8 oz Beef Bacon, diced
1 lb Macaroni (elbow or cavatappi)
4 cups Sharp Cheddar, hand-shredded
3 cups Whole Milk
4 tbsp Unsalted Butter
4 tbsp All-purpose Flour
1 tsp Smoked Paprika
Instructions
Fry diced beef bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy and golden brown.
Remove beef with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain.
Melt butter in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
Whisk in flour for two minutes to create a blonde roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps and simmer until thickened.
Stir in the shredded cheddar and smoked paprika until smooth.
Fold in the cooked macaroni and crispy beef bacon.
Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
Hand-shredding the cheddar is crucial for a smooth melt as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can cause graininess. Feel free to use a mix of mild and extra sharp cheddar for added complexity.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Find it online: https://itisrecipes.com/bacon-mac-and-cheese/