Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use different types of cheese like Gruyere, fontina, or even a smoked Gouda for a unique twist.

Any tips for perfectly cooked bacon and caramelized onions?

Cook the bacon until crispy but not burnt. The caramelized onions should be deeply golden and sweet, but watch them carefully to avoid burning!

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare all the components ahead of time and assemble just before baking. This works really well if you're short on time when serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free friendly?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to this mac and cheese?

Definitely. Add veggies like peas, broccoli, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

Imagine sinking your fork into a creamy, cheesy, deeply flavorful bowl of mac and cheese. Now, picture that mac and cheese loaded with sweet, savory caramelized onions and crispy, smoky bacon. That's exactly what this recipe delivers. It's a grown-up version of a childhood favorite that's guaranteed to impress. It really is something magical

I wasn't always a fan of mac and cheese, to be honest. It wasn't until I tried a version with caramelized onions at a small bistro in upstate New York that my mind was changed forever. The sweetness of the onions, the saltiness of the bacon, combined with that rich, cheesy sauce... it was an epiphany! I had to recreate it. It took a few tries to get it just right, but believe me, the effort was worth it. Now, it's a staple in my house, and I'm excited to share it with you.

Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Bacon

Name: Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Bacon
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Cheese-Based
Ingredients: 1 lb Elbow Macaroni; 8 oz Bacon; 2 large Yellow Onions; 4 tbsp Butter; 4 tbsp All-Purpose Flour; 3 cups Whole Milk; 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese; 1 cup Shredded Gruyere Cheese; 1 cup Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese; 1 tsp Dijon Mustard; Dash (optional) Hot Sauce; 2 tbsp Olive Oil; To taste Salt; To taste Pepper

This Mac & Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Bacon recipe transforms a classic comfort food into a gourmet delight! Rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it's a dish that's both satisfying and impressive.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 6 servings

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

📖 Instructions

First things first, let's get those onions going. Slice two large yellow onions thinly. It's okay if you shed a tear or two; it just means you're putting love into the dish. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of sugar, and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes, or until they're a deep golden brown and beautifully caramelized. This step is crucial; don't rush it!
While the onions are doing their thing, cook 8 ounces of bacon in the same skillet (or a separate one, if you prefer). Cook until crispy, then remove and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease; it'll add amazing flavor to the cheese sauce.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Now, let’s cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape; cavatappi and shells work great too) and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
Time for the cheese sauce. In the same large pot you used for the pasta, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of whole milk until the mixture is smooth and there are no lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 4 cups of shredded cheese. I like to use a mix of cheddar, Gruyere, and Monterey Jack, but feel free to experiment. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the reserved bacon grease, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and a dash of hot sauce (if you like a little kick). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Fold in the caramelized onions and most of the crumbled bacon, reserving some for topping. Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining crumbled bacon over the top of the mac and cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let it stand for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy your incredibly delicious Mac & Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Bacon!