Mac’n Cheese with Bacon and Beer: Grill Up Comfort Food Now

Indulge in our Mac’n Cheese with Bacon and Beer, a mouthwatering twist on a classic comfort dish. Imagine the creamy goodness of macaroni, the smoky crunch of bacon, and a subtle kick of beer—all grilled to perfection. It’s a BBQ game-changer that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Mac’n Cheese with Bacon and Beer

These simple ingredients blend into a symphony of flavors that’s sure to impress at your next cookout.

• 10.5 oz (about 2 cups) macaroni or small pasta shape
• 8 oz chopped bacon (streaky works best)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 tsp chopped or dried thyme leaves
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1.25 cups milk
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp mild chili powder (Kashmiri recommended)
• 7 oz (about 2 cups) shredded medium cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
• 1/2 cup beer (your favorite brew)

Cooking the Pasta

1. Cook the pasta in boiling water until al dente—perfectly tender but with a bite. Drain, rinse with cold water to stop the cooking, and set aside.

Preparing the Bacon and Onion

2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a deep cast-iron skillet on the grill over direct heat. Add bacon and cook until crispy and golden. Toss in the onion and thyme, cooking until the onion softens and turns translucent. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Making the Roux and Sauce

3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
4. Whisk in the milk gradually to prevent lumps. Warm milk beforehand for a silkier sauce. Stir until thick and smooth.
5. Add paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder. Cook for another few minutes until the sauce thickens beautifully.

Adding Beer and Cheese to the Sauce

6. Pour in the beer, stirring for a few minutes to cook off the alcohol. Add cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Return the bacon and onion mixture to the skillet and mix well.

Assembling and Baking Your Mac’n Cheese

7. Stir the pasta into the sauce until fully coated, creating a luscious Mac’n Cheese with Bacon and Beer. Sprinkle extra cheese and a dash of paprika on top for that golden finish.
8. Close the grill lid and cook indirectly for 20-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Enjoy the irresistible aroma as it bakes!

*Note: A roux, made from equal parts flour and fat, is the secret to a thick, velvety sauce.

Serve this Mac’n Cheese with Bacon and Beer alongside your favorite grilled meats for a BBQ feast that’ll steal the show. For more grilling inspiration, explore our best grilling techniques guide. Curious about other recipes? Check out this twist from Erica’s Recipes!

Let’s Hear From You!

How do you make your Mac’n Cheese with Bacon and Beer stand out? Share your favorite beer choice or secret ingredient in the comments below!