MISO BACON MAC & CHEESE
If there’s one dish that screams comfort and indulgence, it’s mac and cheese. But at Foods of Li, we believe in taking classic comfort food to the next level. Enter our Miso Bacon Mac and Cheese — a creamy, cheesy, smoky, and umami-packed delight with a crispy, golden cheese topping. It’s everything you love about mac and cheese but with an Asian-inspired twist that makes it truly unforgettable.
Why Miso Bacon Mac and Cheese?
When you think about mac and cheese, you imagine rich, gooey cheese and tender pasta. Now, imagine adding the savory depth of white miso and the smoky crunch of crispy bacon. The result? A mac and cheese recipe that’s bold, satisfying, and completely unique.
At Foods of Li, we’re all about Asian fusion recipes that are comforting, creative, and absolutely delicious. This dish embodies that philosophy perfectly. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, making a cozy weeknight meal, or indulging in some self-care with comfort food, this miso-infused mac and cheese is a must-try.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Miso Paste: Adds an umami boost that elevates the cheese sauce.
- Crispy Bacon: Smoky, salty, and crunchy — the ultimate mac and cheese topping.
- Creamy Sauce: A luscious blend of cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan makes every bite indulgent.
- Crispy Cheese Topping: A blend of Parmesan and cheddar cheese broiled to golden perfection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients are simple, and you may already have most of them in your kitchen. If not, miso paste can easily be found in the Asian aisle of your local grocery store or an Asian market.
Tips for the Perfect Mac and Cheese
- Freshly Shred Your Cheese: It makes the sauce smoother and creamier.
- Don’t Skip the Miso: This is the secret ingredient that sets this mac and cheese apart.
- Layer in the Bacon: Mixing some into the pasta while reserving the rest for the topping ensures smoky flavor in every bite.
How to Serve Miso Bacon Mac and Cheese
This dish is incredibly versatile. Pair it with a light salad for balance or serve it as a decadent side at your next holiday gathering. For a cozy night in, grab a bowl, your favorite show, and let this dish warm your soul.
Bring a New Twist to Your Table
Ready to try this Miso Bacon Mac and Cheese for yourself? Follow the full recipe below and tag us on Instagram with your creations. We’d love to see how you make this dish your own!
If you’re looking for more Asian fusion recipes or ideas for comfort food with a creative twist, be sure to explore the rest of our blog. From Miso Corn Chowder to Garlic Soy Mac & Cheese, we’ve got plenty of dishes to inspire your next meal.
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Keywords: miso mac and cheese recipe, bacon mac and cheese, Asian fusion comfort food, umami recipes, creamy mac and cheese, Foods of Li recipes
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Enter our Miso Bacon Mac and Cheese — a creamy, cheesy, smoky, and umami-packed delight with a crispy, golden cheese topping.
- 12 oz elbow macaroni ((or favorite pasta shape))
- 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp miso paste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup gouda cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 8 slices bacon (crumbled)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup gouda cheese (shredded)
- Boil the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until slightly al dente for about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon:
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. Once cooled, crumble into small pieces.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- Remove excess bacon grease with a paper towel, then add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Slowly pour in the warm milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- In a small bowl, thin out the miso paste with around 2 tbsp of water.
- Add the miso paste, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Dijon mustard. Stir until the miso dissolves and the sauce is smooth.
- Reduce heat to low and gradually mix in the cheddar, gouda, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until melted and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and fold gently to coat. Mix in half of the crumbled bacon.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Add in 1/2 of the mac and cheese then the shredded cheeses. Add in the other half and top with the remaining bacon and cheeses.
- Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Broil for an extra 2-3 minutes for that extra crispy top.
- Serve:
Let the mac and cheese cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for an extra touch.
- Freshly Shred Your Cheese: It makes the sauce smoother and creamier.
- Don’t Skip the Miso: This is the secret ingredient that sets this mac and cheese apart.
- Layer in the Bacon: Mixing some into the pasta while reserving the rest for the topping ensures smoky flavor in every bite.
- Stir the sauce frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- For a richer flavor, add 1 tsp of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the cheese sauce.
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