When I first tried this smoky chipotle bacon mac and cheese recipe, I couldn’t stop going back for seconds (and maybe thirds). The creamy, cheesy base with a hint of spice, paired with crispy, smoky bacon, was everything I never knew I wanted in comfort food.
The layers of flavor are irresistible and perfect for sharing at gatherings or for cozy nights at home. Give it a try, and I promise, you’ll understand why this dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. For a unique appetizer, you can also pair it with cajun shrimp deviled eggs recipe to complement this dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Smoky Chipotle Bacon Mac and Cheese Recipe
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating that perfect smoky, creamy, cheesy bite. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pasta (16 oz) – Short pasta like elbows or shells work best. They hold the cheese sauce perfectly. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti for a better texture.
- Butter (1/2 cup) – Helps create the roux base for the creamy cheese sauce. Pro tip: Use unsalted butter to better control the saltiness of your dish.
- Yellow Onion (1/2, minced) – Adds a mild sweetness that balances the richness of the cheese. Mince it finely for better distribution.
- Flour (1/4 cup) – Thickens the sauce when combined with butter to make a roux. Make sure to cook it enough to avoid a raw flavor.
- Half and Half (3 cups) and Heavy Cream (2 cups) – These create an ultra-luxurious and silky sauce. While tempting, don’t substitute with milk, as it won’t be as creamy.
- Kosher Salt (1 1/2 tsp), Black Pepper (1/2-1 tsp), Smoked Paprika (1/2 tsp) – Seasonings that add depth. Go easy on the pepper if you prefer less spice.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo (1-2, minced) – The star ingredient! These add smoky heat. Reduce the amount if you aren’t a fan of spice.
- Cheddar Cheese (3 cups, shredded) and Smoked Gouda (2 cups, shredded) – Freshly shredded is best for smooth melting. Pre-shredded cheese can result in a gritty sauce.
- Panko Breadcrumbs (2/3 cup) – For a crispy topping that balances the creaminess.
- Ancho Chile Powder (1/2 tsp) – Boosts the smoky flavor of the topping.
- Olive Oil (2-3 tsp) – Helps evenly brown the panko topping.
- Bacon (8 slices, cooked and crumbled) – Smoky and crispy, bacon adds texture and flavor you won’t want to skip.
Note: This recipe yields 6 generous servings.
Recipe Variations to Try
If you like putting your personal twist on recipes, here are some variations you can try:
- Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream and half and half with unsweetened cashew milk or oat cream, and use plant-based cheese alternatives.
- Tone Down the Spice: Reduce or omit the chipotle peppers and use just the adobo sauce for a milder kick.
- Add Veggies: Toss in roasted broccoli, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to adapt this dish for gluten intolerance.
- Flavor Enhancers: Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle yet surprising flavor boost.
You might also enjoy trying this honey mustard salmon in foil recipe for a different take on bold flavors.
Cooking Time Breakdown
Here’s your time breakdown to help with meal planning:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Your Kitchen Essentials
Here’s the equipment you’ll need to prepare this recipe:
- Large Pot – To boil the pasta.
- Large Saucepan – For making the cheese sauce.
- Cast Iron Skillet or Baking Dish – Perfect for baking and serving.
- Whisk – Helps make a smooth roux and sauce.
- Box Grater – For shredding fresh cheese.
- Mixing Bowl – To combine pasta and sauce.
How to Make Smoky Chipotle Bacon Mac and Cheese
Creating this rich and smoky mac and cheese is simpler than you may think. Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water until it’s al dente. Drain it and toss it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Next, stir in the flour and cook for about a minute, whisking constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken your sauce.
Step 3: Build the Cheese Sauce
Gradually whisk in the half and half and heavy cream. Ensure there are no lumps. Stir in the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and minced chipotle peppers. Allow this to gently simmer and thicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring often.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the cheddar and smoked gouda, a handful at a time, until it’s melted and creamy. Reserve about 1/2 cup of cheese for the topping later.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Pour the velvety cheese sauce over the cooked pasta in a mixing bowl. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
Step 6: Assemble and Top
Transfer the cheesy pasta to your greased baking dish or skillet. Sprinkle the reserved cheese on top. Combine the panko breadcrumbs, ancho chili powder, and olive oil in a small bowl, then scatter it over the top. Finally, add the cooked, crumbled bacon.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, until hot and bubbly. For an extra crispy topping, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
Tips to Make This Recipe Even Better
From my all-time favorite tweaks, here are some tips that elevate the dish:
- Always shred your own cheese for the creamiest sauce.
- Don’t skip the chipotle peppers, but adjust the amount to your taste.
- For a crispier topping, drizzle a little melted butter over the panko before baking.
- To make it extra decadent, mix crispy bacon into the cheese sauce as well as on top.
Serving Suggestions for This Smoky Dish
Serve this smoky chipotle bacon mac and cheese right out of the skillet for a rustic presentation. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
And don’t forget a slice of crusty bread to scoop up every last bit of that creamy sauce. You can also enjoy similar dinner recipes for more comforting meal ideas.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional profile per serving:
- Calories: 1,517
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 108g
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make Ahead: Assemble the dish (without baking) and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add 10-15 minutes of bake time if baking straight from the fridge.
- Freezing: Freeze the unbaked mac and cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F or microwave in small portions until heated through.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
You’ll be obsessed with this smoky chipotle bacon mac and cheese because:
- It’s bursting with flavor from smoky chipotle and crispy bacon.
- The cheese sauce is creamy and rich, with the perfect consistency.
- Customizable for different dietary needs or flavor preferences.
- Easy to make ahead for busy weeknights or entertaining.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Pasta Shape?
Yes, any short pasta like rigatoni, cavatappi, or penne will work well. Avoid long pasta for better texture.
How Spicy Is This Recipe?
The chipotle peppers give mild to moderate spice. Adjust the amount or omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Absolutely! Just store cooled leftovers in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
What’s the Best Substitute for Chipotle Peppers?
Try smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor without any heat.