Smithfield Mike's Hot Honey Bacon Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe
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Difficulty
Medium
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried macaroni pasta
- 8 slices Mike's Hot Honey-Smithfield bacon
- 2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups American cheese, shredded
- 1 1/2 cups evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt
Instructions
The Bacon (10 minutes)
- Cook That Bacon: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook bacon until crispy. Transfer bacon to a plate lined with paper towel to drain.
- Chop It Up: When bacon has cooled, use a cutting board and sharp knife to chop bacon into small pieces. Set aside.
The Pasta (10 minutes)
- Boil Away: Cook macaroni by following instructions on packaging. Drain macaroni and add to large bowl.
The Cheese Sauce (10 minutes)
- Start the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until flour has completely absorbed all of the butter.
- Thicken It: Continue cooking and stirring until mixture is smooth and has thickened, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add the Milk: Slowly add in evaporated milk while whisking. Add heavy cream and whisk for another 10 seconds.
- Cheese Time: When mixture starts to bubble, reduce heat and add cheese. Whisk until cheese melts and mixture becomes smooth. Season with salt if needed.
Bring It Together (5 minutes)
- Combine: Add cooked macaroni and two-thirds of bacon bits to cheese sauce, stirring until pasta is well coated in cheese sauce.
- Top It Off: Sprinkle remaining bacon bits on top of mac and cheese.
- The Finale: Serve with a drizzle of Mike's Hot Honey.
Pro Tips!
- Don't overcook the pasta - it should be al dente since it'll continue cooking in the hot cheese sauce
- Shred your own cheese for the creamiest sauce - pre-shredded cheese has coating that prevents smooth melting
- Keep the heat low when adding cheese to prevent it from becoming grainy
- The evaporated milk creates an extra creamy texture - don't substitute regular milk!
Perfect Pairings
Make It a Meal:
- Serve alongside BBQ ribs or pulled pork
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a crisp salad
- Great side for fried chicken or grilled meats
Level It Up:
- Add breadcrumbs mixed with butter and broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispy top
- Mix in diced jalapeños for extra heat
- Stir in some caramelized onions for depth
- Add a handful of spinach or broccoli for greens
Leftover Magic:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess
- Turn leftovers into mac and cheese balls - bread them and fry!
- Use as a filling for grilled cheese sandwiches
