When creamy, cheesy comfort food meets smoky bacon and a splash of beer, you get this unforgettable Smoked Beer Bacon Mac & Cheese. It’s the ultimate upgrade to a classic dish, perfect for impressing your guests or treating your family to a rich, flavorful meal. With layers of sharp cheddar, nutty Parmesan, and smoky bacon tied together with a hint of beer and Unkie’s Seasoning Blend, this recipe delivers bold and satisfying flavors in every bite.
Prep & Cook Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Serving Size: Serves 6-8
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 6 bacon strips, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1¾ cups 2% milk
- ⅔ cup brown ale or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- Unkie's Seasoning Blend (to taste)
- Additional green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven or smoker to 300°F. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a 12-inch cast-iron skillet (or other ovenproof skillet), cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain.
- In the skillet with the bacon drippings, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and beer (or chicken broth), ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in the Parmesan and cheddar cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni, chopped green onions, salt, pepper, and half of the crispy bacon to the cheese sauce. Sprinkle in Unkie's Seasoning Blend to taste. Stir to combine evenly.
- Place the skillet in the preheated oven or smoker and bake, uncovered, for 20-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and top with the remaining bacon, a sprinkle of Unkie's Seasoning Blend, and additional green onions for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Extra Smoky Flavor: Use a smoker for baking to enhance the dish’s smoky profile.
- Beer Alternative: Swap brown ale with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option.
- Crispy Top: Broil for the last 2 minutes to achieve a golden, crunchy crust.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot for pasta
- Cast-iron skillet or ovenproof skillet
- Whisk
- Mixing spoon
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 325°F or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Call to Action
Elevate your comfort food game with this Smoked Beer Bacon Mac & Cheese! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a party centerpiece, this dish is sure to impress. Share your creation on social media with #UnkiesSeasoning and inspire others to dive into bold, smoky flavors!