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Macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food that has warmed hearts and filled bellies for generations. It’s a dish that evokes nostalgia and brings people together, making it a staple at family gatherings and cozy dinners alike. However, if you’re looking to elevate this classic dish into something extraordinary, the Cheesy Bacon Mac & Cheese Cups are the answer. This innovative recipe combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional mac and cheese with the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon and a delightful topping, creating a fun and flavorful twist that’s sure to please both kids and adults.

Cheesy Bacon Mac & Cheese Cups

Discover a delicious twist on a classic comfort food with Cheesy Bacon Mac & Cheese Cups. This innovative recipe combines creamy mac and cheese with crispy bacon, creating a fun and flavorful bite-sized treat. Perfect for any occasion, these mini cups offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors that everyone will love. Elevate your gatherings, snack time, or family meals with this easy-to-make dish that is sure to impress. Embrace the cheesy goodness today!
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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: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with cupcake liners for easy removal.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.

        Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

          Add Cheese and Seasoning: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until fully melted and smooth. Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and add salt and pepper to taste.

            Combine Pasta and Bacon: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well-coated. Fold in the crispy bacon and mix thoroughly.

              Fill the Muffin Tin: Spoon the mac and cheese mixture into each muffin cup, filling almost to the top. If desired, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs on top of each cup for extra flavor and crunch.

                Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and bubbly.

                  Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Carefully remove the mac and cheese cups from the tin using a fork or spatula. Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with chopped chives, and enjoy!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 40 minutes | 12 servings