Bacon & Pimento Mac & Cheese: A Delicious Twist on Classic Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as beloved as mac and cheese. The creamy, cheesy goodness pairs perfectly with a variety of ingredients, from crispy bacon to the smoky richness of pimentos. Today, we’re taking your classic mac and cheese up a notch by adding crispy bacon and vibrant pimento peppers for a new and exciting twist.

If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying meal, our Bacon & Pimento Mac & Cheese is perfect. It’s an ideal main dish for family dinners, a great side for ham dishes, or even a fun addition to your Easter or Christmas spread. Whether you’re craving a new dish to serve with ham or simply looking for cheap dinners for a family, this Bacon & Pimento Mac & Cheese is sure to impress.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 500-600 calories per serving (varies based on portion size and specific ingredients)
• Protein: 20-25g per serving
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g per serving
• Fat: 25-30g per serving
• Fiber: 2-3g per serving

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape of your choice)
• 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6-8 slices)
• 1/2 cup pimento peppers, chopped (drained if using jarred)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Recipe for Bacon & Pimento Mac & Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. You can drizzle a little olive oil on it to prevent sticking, but it’s not necessary.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the pasta is cooking, place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook until they are crispy and browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. After it cools for a minute or two, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet you used to cook the bacon, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, sprinkle in the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir to combine and cook for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to cook out and form a roux (a thickened base for your sauce).

Gradually add the milk and heavy cream to the skillet while stirring continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Keep stirring until the sauce begins to thicken, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and start adding the shredded cheeses a little at a time, stirring constantly until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Bacon, and Pimentos

Now that you have your creamy cheese sauce, it’s time to combine everything. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly. Next, fold in the crumbled bacon and chopped pimento peppers. These vibrant pimentos not only add a pop of color but also bring a subtle smoky flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the cheese and bacon.

Step 5: Season and Adjust

Taste the mac and cheese and add salt and pepper to your liking. The bacon and cheese provide plenty of seasoning, so be cautious when adding salt. You can also adjust the amount of paprika or garlic powder if you prefer a more robust flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is well combined, serve the Bacon & Pimento Mac & Cheese hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. This dish makes a fantastic main course or can be served as a side dish for a variety of occasions. If you’re looking for sides to serve with ham, this mac and cheese pairs beautifully with glazed ham, offering a comforting and flavorful combination.

What To Serve With Bacon & Pimento Mac & Cheese

This Bacon & Pimento Mac & Cheese is versatile and can be paired with several delicious dishes. If you’re looking for ideas on what to serve with ham, this creamy mac and cheese would be a perfect match. Here are a few sides that go great with ham:

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy exterior and slightly bitter taste balance the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Garlic Bread: Nothing beats the classic pairing of garlic bread with mac and cheese. The crunchiness complements the creaminess of the dish.
• Green Bean Almondine: For a fresh and light contrast, green beans sautéed with almonds bring a nice crunch and freshness to your plate.
• Mashed Potatoes: A comforting classic that pairs well with both ham and mac and cheese.
• Cranberry Sauce: If you’re serving this dish for a holiday dinner, cranberry sauce adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the richness of the cheese and bacon.

Ham Recipes for Dinner

If you’re in need of some inspiration for ham recipes for dinner, consider serving this Bacon & Pimento Mac & Cheese alongside a juicy glazed ham. Ham is a crowd-pleaser and pairs perfectly with a variety of sides, including cheesy dishes like mac and cheese. You could also try making a Ham and Cheese Casserole or a Honey Baked Ham for a delicious, comforting meal.

Cheap Dinners for a Family

Looking for cheap dinners for a family? Bacon & Pimento Mac & Cheese is the perfect solution. It’s a filling and flavorful meal that won’t break the bank. The ingredients are simple and affordable, especially when you opt for a store-brand pasta and cheese. Adding bacon elevates the dish without making it too expensive, and you can stretch the recipe to feed a family of four or more. Pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.

What to Make with Ham

If you have leftover ham, this Bacon & Pimento Mac & Cheese is an excellent way to repurpose it. You can dice the ham and add it to the mac and cheese, turning it into a hearty and satisfying meal. The smoky flavor of the ham complements the creamy cheese sauce and crispy bacon, creating a delicious dish that everyone will love.

Sides for Ham Dinner Christmas & Easter Sides with Ham

This mac and cheese is also a fantastic addition to your Christmas or Easter dinner table. It’s a great side dish to serve with ham, whether you’re celebrating a holiday or preparing a special family meal. The creamy texture and smoky flavors make it a festive and comforting choice. It pairs especially well with the sweetness of a honey-glazed ham or the savory notes of a spiced ham.

Conclusion

Bacon & Pimento Mac & Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. It’s the perfect dish to serve with ham, whether it’s for a family dinner, a holiday celebration, or just a delicious weeknight meal. With its creamy cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and colorful pimento peppers, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for cheap dinners for a family, ham dishes for dinner, or sides for a ham dinner, this mac and cheese recipe will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy!