SMOKED MAC-N-CHEESE BACON CUPS
A cheesy appetizer perfect for picnics or game day! Everyone loves bacon and mac-n-cheese so why not combine them for a delicious, melty treat!
INGREDIENTS
- 12 strips of Foris Meats Coffee Bacon
- 16 oz small pasta shells or elbow macaroni
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 5 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cup smoked Gouda cheese
- 2 cup smoked Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp BBQ rub
INSTRUCTIONS
- Set grill or smoker to 350* F.
How to Make the Bacon Cups
- Place muffin tin bottom side up. Use 2 pieces of bacon per cup. Cut one of the strips in half and place it like an "X" over the cup. Use the second slice to wrap around the side of the cup, overlapping the ends. Repeat with remaining bacon until finished.
- Sprinkle 1 Tbsp of BBQ rub on cups.
- Place in the grill or smoker for 45-55 minutes or until bacon is cooked through but not crisp.
- Remove from grill or smoker, let cool, and then remove bacon cups from the pan.
How to Make the Bread Crumb Topping
- In a small mixing bowl, stir together 2 Tbsp melted butter, bread crumbs, and 1 Tbsp of BBQ rub.
How to Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt 6 Tbsp of butter over medium heat. When the butter melts, add flour then whisk constantly for 1 minute.
- Slowly pour the milk into the mixture while continuing to whisk. Continue cooking, whisking frequently, until the mixture bubbles and thickens.
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in all the cheeses. Set aside.
How to Make the Macaroni
- Cook pasta according to the manufacturer's directions, but for one minute less. Remove from the heat, drain the water and return to the pan.
- Stir in the cheese sauce.
How to Assemble and Bake
- Place the bacon cups into a foil pan, right side up, to be filled.
- Scoop the macaroni mixture into the bacon cups.
- Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture on top.
- Bake uncovered in the grill or smoker until browned on top (about 30 minutes).
- Serve immediately!
