📖 Instructions

1. First, let’s get that bacon crisped to perfection! In a large skillet, cook your bacon over medium heat until it's nice and crispy. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on it because nobody likes burnt bacon… except maybe my Uncle Jerry; he's a bit odd.
2. Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease. Resist the urge to eat it all right now. We need it for the mac!
3. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet. Don't throw it away! That liquid gold is gonna add incredible flavor to our cheese sauce. Trust me on this.
4. Now, let's make the roux. Melt the butter in the skillet with the bacon grease over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste. This is your roux, and it's the base for our creamy sauce. Cook it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to get rid of that raw flour taste.
5. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. This is crucial! Keep whisking until the sauce is smooth and starts to thicken slightly. It should coat the back of a spoon. If you do get lumps, don't panic! Just whisk vigorously or use an immersion blender to smooth it out.
6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheeses. Add the cheddar, Gruyere (if you’re feeling fancy), and Monterey Jack (if using). Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Oh, the aroma!
7. Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Nutmeg might sound weird, but it adds a lovely warmth to the cheese sauce. Trust me; it works!
8. While the cheese sauce is simmering, cook your pasta according to the package directions. Aim for al dente – slightly firm to the bite. Nobody likes mushy mac.
9. Drain the pasta well and add it to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Stir to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Make sure every noodle is covered in that cheesy goodness!
10. Crumble the cooked bacon and add most of it to the mac and cheese. Reserve some for topping later. Because presentation matters, even if it's just for yourself!
11. Stir in the bacon and transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you want an extra crispy top, you can broil it for the last minute or two, but watch it carefully so it doesn't burn!
13. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will prevent you from burning your tongue (speaking from experience here!).
14. Serve hot and enjoy your amazing Mac and Cheese with Bacon! Seriously, prepare for applause. You've earned it!