Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs

Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs Recipe - Delicious & Easy to Make

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 24 pieces

Introduction

Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food, combining the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the crispy, savory flavor of bacon, all wrapped up in a golden-brown dough. This recipe transforms a traditional side dish into a fun, portable snack or appetizer that's perfect for parties, game days, or any casual gathering. With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

History

The concept of combining macaroni and cheese with bacon is not new, as both ingredients have long been staples in American cuisine. However, the idea of encasing this delicious mixture in dough and baking it to create "bombs" is a more recent innovation. This recipe is part of a larger trend of "food mashups" that have gained popularity in the culinary world, where chefs and home cooks alike experiment with combining different dishes to create something entirely new and exciting.

Ingredients

cooking spray
4 tbsp grated cheese (mozzarella, colby, American, brie, parmesan, or provolone), optional
2 cup homemade, cooked macaroni and cheese
8 slices fully cooked bacon, heated and chopped
1 package refrigerated pizza dough or (1 tube biscuit dough)
1.75 cup butter, melted
1 tsp parsley flakes
1 tsp garlic powder
3 tbsp italian seasoning, optional
1 cup ranch dressing, optional

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 425° F. Grease a 9-inch pie plate with cooking spray and set it aside.
In a medium bowl, combine the cheese (optional), Italian seasoning (optional), macaroni and cheese, and bacon. Set aside.
Unroll the pizza dough and press it into a 15x9 rectangle. Cut it into 24 square pieces.
Evenly divide the macaroni and cheese mixture and place it in the center of each dough piece.
Pull the edges of each dough piece up and around the macaroni and cheese mixture, completely enclosing it. Pinch the seams to seal. Place the pieces seam-side down in the pie plate.
Brush the tops of the dough with butter. Sprinkle them evenly with parsley flakes and garlic powder.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Serve hot and plain, or with ranch dressing if desired.

Variations

Consider adding chopped jalapeños, diced bell peppers, or sautéed onions to the filling for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or dough for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use cooked, crispy bacon for the best texture and flavor.

- If using refrigerated pizza dough, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to make it easier to handle.

- Be sure to seal the dough tightly around the filling to prevent any cheese from leaking out during baking.

- Brushing the dough with melted butter before baking will give the bombs a beautiful golden color and rich flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs hot from the oven, either on their own or with a side of ranch dressing for dipping. They make a great appetizer or snack for gatherings.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, providing a crispy exterior and a gooey, melted interior. Ensuring the oven is properly preheated and placing the bombs seam-side down are key for optimal results.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the butter used in brushing the dough, and use low-fat cheese. Turkey bacon can be used as a lower-fat alternative to regular bacon.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling and cut the dough squares in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the bombs just before baking to save time.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the baked bombs on a platter garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serving them in a pie dish or on a wooden board can also add a rustic touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs with a crisp salad to balance the richness of the dish. For beverages, light beers or sparkling water with lemon complement the flavors well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through, being careful not to overcook.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs contains approximately 400-500 calories. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs contains approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the pizza dough and macaroni. The exact amount may vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used.

Fats

These bombs are relatively high in fat, with each serving containing about 20-30 grams. The fats come from the cheese, bacon, and butter used in the recipe. Opting for low-fat cheese and reducing the amount of butter can help lower the fat content.

Proteins

Each serving of Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs provides a good source of protein, with approximately 15-20 grams per serving. The protein comes from the cheese and bacon, making these bombs a satisfying snack or appetizer.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish provides some vitamins and minerals, such as calcium from the cheese and iron from the enriched flour in the pizza dough. However, it is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals overall.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the pizza dough), dairy (from the cheese), and eggs (if present in the dough). Individuals with food allergies should modify the recipe accordingly or avoid it.

Summary

Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs are a delicious, indulgent treat best enjoyed in moderation. They are high in carbohydrates, fats, and calories, but also provide protein and some calcium.

Summary

Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs are a creative and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of macaroni and cheese and bacon in a fun, bite-sized form. Perfect for entertaining or a family-friendly meal, this recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. With its combination of creamy, cheesy filling, crispy bacon, and golden dough, it's a dish that's sure to please a crowd.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs. It was a cold winter day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had found tucked away in the back of my pantry. As I turned the pages, a faded piece of paper fell out and landed on the floor. Curious, I picked it up and saw that it was a handwritten recipe for Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs.

I had never heard of such a dish before, but the name alone was enough to pique my interest. I immediately set to work gathering the ingredients and following the instructions. As I cooked and baked, the delicious smell of bacon and cheese filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the timer finally went off, I carefully removed the piping hot Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs from the oven. They were golden brown and crispy on the outside, and oozing with cheesy goodness on the inside. I couldn't wait to take a bite.

As I sank my teeth into one of the bombs, I was transported to food heaven. The crispy bacon added a salty crunch to the creamy mac and cheese, creating a flavor explosion in my mouth. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen.

I decided to share my newfound recipe with my family and friends, who were all equally blown away by the deliciousness of the Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs. They couldn't believe that such a simple dish could be so incredibly satisfying.

Over the years, I have made the Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to perfection. I have added different types of cheese, experimented with different seasonings, and even tried using different types of bacon. But no matter how I change it up, the basic concept of the dish remains the same – a mouthwatering combination of crispy bacon and gooey cheese, all wrapped up in a golden brown shell.

I have shared the recipe with countless people over the years, and it has become a favorite at family gatherings, potlucks, and even dinner parties. People are always amazed at how such a simple dish can be so incredibly delicious, and they always ask for the recipe so they can make it at home.

I often think back to that cold winter day when I first discovered the recipe for Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs. It was like finding a hidden treasure, a culinary gem that would bring joy and satisfaction to countless people over the years.

As I sit here now, surrounded by my family and friends, all enjoying a plate of Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs, I can't help but feel a sense of pride. This recipe has become a part of who I am, a symbol of my love for cooking and my passion for creating delicious food.

And as I take another bite of the crispy, cheesy goodness in front of me, I am filled with gratitude for all the people and places that have inspired me along the way. From that old cookbook in my pantry to the friends and family who have shared their own recipes with me, I am forever grateful for the joy that cooking has brought into my life.

So here's to Bacon Mac and Cheese Bombs – a dish that has brought so much happiness and satisfaction to so many people. May it continue to delight and inspire for many years to come. Bon appétit!