Oktoberfest Bacon Beer Mac & Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Oktoberfest Bacon Beer Mac & Cheese
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese. This Oktoberfest Bacon Beer Mac & Cheese elevates the classic recipe to new heights with a delightful twist. The combination of crispy bacon, rich cheeses, and a touch of savory goodness creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also brings a taste of festive celebration right to your kitchen.
A Personal Story Behind My Oktoberfest Bacon Beer Mac & Cheese Journey
Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering for Oktoberfest, celebrating with delicious food and laughter. One of my favorite memories is the smell of bacon cooking in the kitchen while we prepared various dishes. This recipe is a tribute to those joyful moments, combining the heartiness of bacon with the creaminess of mac and cheese, capturing the essence of togetherness and celebration.
What Makes This Oktoberfest Bacon Beer Mac & Cheese Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out for its unique blend of flavors and textures. The addition of crispy bacon gives a smoky flavor, while the combination of Parmesan and sharp cheddar creates a rich, cheesy sauce that envelops every noodle. Plus, by using chicken broth instead of beer, we keep it family-friendly and accessible to everyone. The dish is not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing during gatherings or cozy nights in.
The Full Oktoberfest Bacon Beer Mac & Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 6 strips of beef bacon, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1-3/4 cups 2% milk
- 2/3 cup chicken broth (No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- Additional green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain. Tip: Be sure to drain well to prevent a watery mac and cheese.
- In a 10-inch ovenproof skillet, cook the chopped beef bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain excess fat. Tip: Keep the drippings in the skillet for added flavor!
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour until well blended, then gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly, and cook until thickened for about 2-3 minutes. Tip: Make sure to keep stirring to avoid lumps!
- Add the shredded Parmesan and cheddar cheeses, stirring until melted and well combined. Mix in the cooked macaroni, green onions, salt, pepper, and half of the cooked bacon. Tip: Reserve some cheese to sprinkle on top for an extra cheesy finish!
- Bake the mixture, uncovered, until bubbly for about 15-20 minutes.
- Sprinkle the remaining bacon and additional green onions on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious Beer Mac and Cheese straight from the skillet!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Oktoberfest Bacon Beer Mac & Cheese
This dish is versatile and can be served in various ways. Pair it with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast, or serve alongside roasted vegetables for a heartier meal. For variations, consider adding cooked beef crumbles or diced beef bacon instead of regular bacon for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations, such as gouda or fontina, to personalize the dish to your liking.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oktoberfest Bacon Beer Mac & Cheese
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese up to baking before refrigerating it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this mac and cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Oktoberfest Bacon Beer Mac & Cheese
Equipment
- Ovenproof skillet Used for cooking and baking the mac and cheese.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 6 strips beef bacon, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
- 1.75 cups 2% milk
- 0.67 cup chicken broth No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon pepper
- additional green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain. Tip: Be sure to drain well to prevent a watery mac and cheese.
- In a 10-inch ovenproof skillet, cook the chopped beef bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain excess fat. Tip: Keep the drippings in the skillet for added flavor!
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour until well blended, then gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly, and cook until thickened for about 2-3 minutes. Tip: Make sure to keep stirring to avoid lumps!
- Add the shredded Parmesan and cheddar cheeses, stirring until melted and well combined. Mix in the cooked macaroni, green onions, salt, pepper, and half of the cooked bacon. Tip: Reserve some cheese to sprinkle on top for an extra cheesy finish!
- Bake the mixture, uncovered, until bubbly for about 15-20 minutes.
- Sprinkle the remaining bacon and additional green onions on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious Beer Mac and Cheese straight from the skillet!