Description
A creamy and indulgent macaroni and cheese made with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, crispy bacon, and ranch seasoning for a flavorful twist.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 4 slices bacon
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped green onions or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels. Crumble into small pieces.
- Make the cheese sauce in the same skillet by melting the butter over medium heat, adding flour, and whisking for 1-2 minutes. Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Simmer for 4-5 minutes until thickened, then stir in ranch seasoning and cheese.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and add half of the crumbled bacon. Mix well, season with salt and pepper.
- Serve the dish hot, topped with the remaining crumbled bacon and garnished with green onions or parsley if desired.
Notes
For an extra flavor boost, reserve some bacon fat in the pan when preparing the cheese sauce. Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Bacon, Macaroni and Cheese, Creamy Pasta, Comfort Food, Ranch Dressing
