The Comforting Vegan Vegan PimentoBacon Mac Cheese

Mac and Pimiento Cheese Recipe Taste of the South Recipes, Cheese

Cover Mac and Pimiento Cheese Recipe Taste of the South Recipes, Cheese (502x502)

Table of Contents

• What is Bacon And Pimento Mac And Cheese?
• Ingredients
• How to Make Bacon And Pimento Mac And Cheese
• Tips and Variations
• Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bacon And Pimento Mac And Cheese?

Bacon and Pimento Mac and Cheese is a delicious twist on the classic mac and cheese dish. It combines the creamy and cheesy goodness of traditional mac and cheese with the smoky and slightly spicy flavors of bacon and pimentos. This recipe is perfect for bacon lovers and adds a unique twist to the traditional comfort food.

Ingredients

To make Bacon and Pimento Mac and Cheese, you will need the following ingredients:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup diced pimentos
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Bacon And Pimento Mac And Cheese

Follow these steps to make Bacon and Pimento Mac and Cheese:

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, crumbled bacon, diced pimentos, and cheese sauce. Stir until all the ingredients are well coated.

Step 5: Bake the Mac and Cheese

Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to enhance your Bacon and Pimento Mac and Cheese:

Tips:

• For extra smoky flavor, you can use smoked cheddar cheese instead of regular cheddar.
• To make the dish spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
• To make the dish creamier, add a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream to the cheese sauce.

Variations:

• Add sautéed onions and garlic for extra flavor.
• Top the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs and bake until crispy for a crunchy texture.
• Experiment with different types of cheeses, such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack, to create your own unique flavor combination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use different types of pasta?

A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, shells, or rotini would work well in this recipe.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the mac and cheese ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you're ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature, and then bake as directed.

Q: Can I freeze Bacon and Pimento Mac and Cheese?

A: Yes, you can freeze this dish. Prepare it as directed, but do not bake it. Instead, cover it tightly with foil and freeze. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?

A: Absolutely! You can add steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach to the mac and cheese for added nutrients and color.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A: Yes, you can omit the bacon from the recipe to make it vegetarian. You can also add some vegetarian bacon substitute or extra vegetables for added flavor.

Conclusion

Bacon and Pimento Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic mac and cheese dish. With its creamy and cheesy texture combined with the smoky and slightly spicy flavors of bacon and pimentos, it is a comfort food favorite. By following the simple steps and using the right ingredients, you can easily make this delicious dish at home. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply craving a comforting meal, Bacon and Pimento Mac and Cheese is sure to satisfy your taste buds.