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Oktoberfest Bacon Beer Mac: 1 Must-Try Comfort Dish

Oktoberfest Bacon Beer Mac
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A creamy and savory mac and cheese dish inspired by Oktoberfest, featuring crispy bacon and a rich beer cheese sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 pound bacon, chopped
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 12 ounces dark beer (like a Märzen or Bock)
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 8 ounces Gruyere cheese, shredded
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels. Reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
  3. Add chopped onion to the skillet with bacon fat and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant. Remove onion and garlic from skillet and set aside.
  4. Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in the dark beer until smooth. Then, gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth.
  6. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
  7. Stir in Dijon mustard and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Reduce heat to low. Add shredded Gruyere and cheddar cheeses, and softened cream cheese. Stir until cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy.
  9. Add the cooked macaroni, reserved bacon, and cooked onion and garlic to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine and coat the pasta evenly. This is your Oktoberfest bacon beer mac.
  10. If desired, transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until breadcrumbs are golden brown.
  11. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving your Oktoberfest bacon beer mac and cheese.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
  • You can use other types of pasta like shells or rotini.
  • Experiment with different types of German beer for varied flavor profiles in your Oktoberfest bacon beer mac.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://bakerslider.com/oktoberfest-bacon-beer-mac/

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