Get ready to transform your ordinary mac and cheese into a mind-blowing culinary experience that will have your taste buds dancing with joy! This Three Cheese Skillet Bacon Mac and Cheese isn't just another pasta dish - it's a creamy, crispy, cheesy sensation that combines the irresistible crunch of bacon with a luxurious blend of three mouthwatering cheeses. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or satisfy a serious comfort food craving, this recipe promises to be your new go-to crowd-pleaser that elevates the classic mac and cheese to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 strips bacon, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy and golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving bacon grease in the pan.
- In the same skillet, sprinkle flour over the bacon grease and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, ensuring no lumps form.
- Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken and becomes smooth.
- Reduce heat to low and add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until completely melted and creating a creamy sauce.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Sprinkle crispy bacon pieces over the top of the mac and cheese. Serve hot directly from the skillet.
Tips
- Use room temperature milk and cheese to ensure smoother melting and prevent clumping.
- Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties for a more creamy and authentic texture.
- Cook bacon until it's extra crispy to add maximum crunch and flavor to your dish.
- Keep the heat low when adding cheese to prevent separation and maintain a silky smooth sauce.
- For extra richness, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the milk mixture.
- Don't overcook the pasta - aim for al dente to prevent mushy mac and cheese.
- If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a little extra milk; if too thin, continue cooking to reduce.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and melted cheese experience.
- For a golden top, briefly broil the skillet for 1-2 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 620kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 110mg
