Get ready to revolutionize your mac and cheese game with the most addictive, mouth-watering recipe that will have everyone begging for seconds! This isn't just another boring pasta dish – this is a flavor-packed, bacon-loaded culinary masterpiece that transforms the classic comfort food into an irresistible feast. Imagine creamy, cheesy goodness studded with crispy bacon bits that will make your taste buds dance with pure joy. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or satisfy a serious comfort food craving, this Cracked Out Mac and Cheese is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the bacon by cooking it in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then crumble into small pieces.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it thoroughly in a colander, shaking to remove excess water. Return the hot pasta to the original pot.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt to the hot pasta. Stir vigorously until the cheese is completely melted and the ingredients are well combined.
- Fold in the crumbled bacon, reserving a small amount for garnish. Mix gently to distribute the bacon evenly throughout the mac and cheese.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish and sprinkle the reserved bacon crumbles on top as a garnish.
- Serve immediately while hot and creamy. Optional: Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest, most melty texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
- Cook your bacon until it's extra crispy to ensure maximum crunch and flavor throughout the dish.
- Don't drain all the pasta water – a little starchy water can help create a more silky, creamy sauce.
- For extra richness, consider using a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar and mild cheddar for a more complex flavor profile.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 2-3 minutes after mixing to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- For a crispy top, transfer to a baking dish and broil for 2-3 minutes before serving.Pro tip: This dish is best served immediately, but you can keep it warm in a low-temperature oven (200°F) for short periods without compromising its creamy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 540kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 90mg
