Cheesy Bacon Mac & Cheese Cups -

Macaroni and cheese is a beloved dish that has earned its place as a staple comfort food across households worldwide. Its creamy, cheesy goodness evokes feelings of nostalgia, often reminding us of cozy family dinners and gatherings. This classic dish has evolved over the years, leading to countless creative variations that cater to different tastes and preferences. One delightful twist on this timeless favorite is the Cheesy Bacon Mac & Cheese Cups. These bite-sized portions not only offer an innovative way to enjoy the beloved flavors of mac and cheese but also make for easy serving and portion control, perfect for parties, picnics, or a simple family meal.

Cheesy Bacon Mac & Cheese Cups

Discover the ultimate comfort food with these Cheesy Bacon Mac & Cheese Cups! Perfectly portable and packed with rich, creamy flavors, these bite-sized delights are a fun twist on the classic mac and cheese. Baked in muffin tins, they are easy to serve at parties or enjoy as a cozy family meal. With crispy bacon adding a savory crunch, each cup is an indulgent treat that everyone will adore. Try this delightful recipe and elevate your next gathering!

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Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni

4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by greasing it lightly or lining it with cupcake liners to ensure easy removal of the mac and cheese cups later.

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook it until crispy, stirring occasionally. Once crispy, remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet for flavor.

Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet with the remaining bacon fat, add the unsalted butter and melt it over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color. Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously. Keep cooking until the mixture thickens, which should take around 5-7 minutes.

Add Cheese and Seasoning: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mixing until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. To enhance the flavor, add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Combine Pasta and Bacon: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained macaroni with the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the sauce. Gently fold in the crispy bacon pieces to incorporate them evenly.

Fill the Muffin Tin: Using a spoon, fill each muffin cup with the mac and cheese mixture, filling them almost to the top. If you like, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs over each cup to add extra flavor and a delightful crunchy topping.

Bake: Carefully place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Watch for the tops to become golden brown and bubbly.

Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the mac and cheese cups to cool for a few minutes. Carefully take them out using a fork or spatula and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped chives for a pop of color and flavor, then dig in!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 12 cups