Macaroni and Cheese with Pancetta

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When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite beats a creamy, cheesy bowl of macaroni and cheese. But what if we take this beloved classic and give it a delightful twist? Enter Macaroni and Cheese with Pancetta — a dish that elevates the traditional recipe by adding the savory, crispy goodness of pancetta. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing side at your next gathering. Let’s dive into this deliciously indulgent recipe!

A Cheesy Love Affair

Growing up, macaroni and cheese was my ultimate comfort food. The rich, gooey cheese paired with perfectly cooked pasta always brought a smile to my face. Then I discovered pancetta, and everything changed! The salty, savory bite of pancetta adds depth and flavor, transforming ordinary mac and cheese into something extraordinary. Trust me; you’ll want to make this dish again and again!

Ingredients

To whip up this scrumptious Macaroni and Cheese with Pancetta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 4 oz pancetta, diced
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for a hint of smokiness)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Serving Size

Serves 4

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

30 minutes

Total Time

40 minutes

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Crisp the Pancetta: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced pancetta. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, or until crispy. Remove the pancetta with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Cheeses: Stir in the sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Pasta and Pancetta: Add the cooked macaroni and crispy pancetta to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine all those delicious flavors.
6. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×9 inch baking dish.
7. Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and dig in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Macaroni and Cheese with Pancetta is a game-changer! The combination of creamy cheese, tender pasta, and crispy pancetta creates an unforgettable dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. Each bite is a delightful experience, making it hard to resist going back for seconds.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re having a cozy night at home or entertaining friends, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Its unique twist on a classic favorite is sure to impress anyone who digs in.

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