Macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and this version takes it to the next level with the addition of caramelized onions and crispy bacon. The sweetness of the onions and the smokiness of the bacon add depth of flavor to the creamy, cheesy sauce, making this dish a standout favorite. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish for a gathering, this Mac & Cheese with Caramelized Onions & Bacon is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients for Mac & Cheese with Caramelized Onions & Bacon:
- 8 oz (225g) macaroni pasta
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Mac & Cheese with Caramelized Onions & Bacon:
- Cook the macaroni pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
- Add the sliced onions to the skillet with the bacon fat and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 20-30 minutes. Remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce has thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni pasta, caramelized onions, and crispy bacon to the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is well combined.
- If desired, transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve the Mac & Cheese with Caramelized Onions & Bacon hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Macaroni Pasta: Macaroni pasta is the classic choice for macaroni and cheese, but you can use any small pasta shape you prefer. Cook the pasta until al dente so it holds its shape in the creamy sauce.
- Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor to the dish. Cooking the bacon until crispy adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
- Onions: Caramelizing the onions brings out their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor to the dish. It’s worth taking the time to cook the onions low and slow until they are beautifully golden brown.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is the perfect choice for macaroni and cheese, as it melts smoothly and adds a rich, tangy flavor. Feel free to mix in other cheeses for added depth of flavor.
This Mac & Cheese with Caramelized Onions & Bacon is a decadent and flavorful twist on a classic dish. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this macaroni and cheese is sure to become a new favorite.
