Smoked Beer Bacon Mac & Cheese: A Comfort Food Classic with a Twist
When you combine the rich, smoky flavor of bacon, the sharpness of cheddar, the nutty Parmesan, and a splash of beer, you get the ultimate mac & cheese experience. This Smoked Beer Bacon Mac & Cheese is not your average pasta dish—it’s comfort food elevated to a whole new level. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or any occasion where you want to impress, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 6 bacon strips, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups 2% milk
- 2/3 cup brown ale or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- Unkie's Seasoning Blend (to taste)
- Additional green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 300°F or prepare your smoker to the same temperature. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a 12-inch cast-iron skillet (or other ovenproof skillet), cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside on paper towels to drain.
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In the same pan with the bacon drippings, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the flour, cooking it for about 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and beer (or chicken broth), ensuring no lumps form.
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Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly. Let it simmer and thicken for 2-3 minutes.
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Reduce the heat and stir in the shredded Parmesan and cheddar cheeses until melted and smooth.
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Add the cooked macaroni, chopped green onions, salt, pepper, and half of the crispy bacon to the cheese mixture. Sprinkle in Unkie's Seasoning Blend for extra flavor. Stir everything to combine evenly.
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Place the skillet in the preheated oven or smoker and bake, uncovered, for 20-30 minutes, or until the mac & cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Once baked, remove the skillet and top with the remaining bacon, Unkie's Seasoning Blend, and additional green onions for a final burst of flavor and color. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why You'll Love This Recipe:
The combination of smoky bacon, creamy cheese sauce, and a hint of beer creates a perfect harmony of flavors. The beer adds a slight depth without overpowering, while Unkie’s Seasoning Blend ties everything together for a unique and mouthwatering twist. The extra crunch from the crispy bacon and the freshness of green onions make every bite irresistible.
Tips for Success:
- For an extra smoky flavor, use a smoker instead of the oven for baking.
- Swap the brown ale for chicken broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, and it will still taste amazing.
- If you like a crispy top, broil the dish for the last 2 minutes of baking.
Perfect for:
This dish is perfect for backyard barbecues, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner. Serve it with grilled meats, a crisp salad, or enjoy it all on its own!
With Smoked Beer Bacon Mac & Cheese, you’re combining the best of creamy comfort food and bold flavors in one dish. What more could you ask for?