Avocado and Bacon Mac and Cheese (Print Version)
Creamy mac and cheese topped with crispy bacon and fresh avocado for a rich, satisfying meal.
# What You Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 oz elbow macaroni
→ Cheese Sauce
02 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
03 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
04 - 2 cups whole milk
05 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
06 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
08 - 1/2 tsp onion powder
09 - 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
10 - 1/2 tsp salt
→ Add-ins
11 - 6 slices bacon, chopped
12 - 2 ripe avocados, diced
13 - 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
14 - Juice of 1/2 lemon
# How To Make It:
01 - Prepare elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 - Cook chopped bacon in large skillet over medium heat until crispy, approximately 6–8 minutes. Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Reserve 1 tablespoon bacon fat.
03 - Melt butter with reserved bacon fat in large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook constantly for 1 minute to form roux.
04 - Gradually whisk milk into roux until smooth. Bring to simmer and cook 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
05 - Stir in sharp cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until cheese is completely melted and sauce is velvety smooth.
06 - Add cooked macaroni and half the crispy bacon to cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly to ensure even coating.
07 - Gently fold diced avocado and lemon juice into pasta mixture, taking care not to mash avocado.
08 - Plate immediately and garnish with reserved bacon and fresh chives.
# Handy Tips:
01 -
- The smoky bacon creates this incredible depth that balances the mild creaminess of fresh avocado
- It comes together in 40 minutes flat but tastes like it came from a comfort food restaurant
02 -
- The avocado needs to be folded in gently so it stays in distinct cubes rather than mashing into the sauce
- That tablespoon of reserved bacon fat is the secret ingredient that makes people ask what's different about your recipe
03 -
- Smoked cheddar instead of regular adds an incredible layer of smokiness that plays beautifully with the bacon
- A pinch of cayenne pepper in the cheese sauce adds subtle warmth that surprises people pleasantly