Ultimate Smoky Bacon Cheddar Grilled Cheese Bake: The Perfect Comfort Food
Imagine biting into layers of crispy, buttery bread paired with gooey, smoky melted cheese and the crunch of perfectly cooked bacon. The Ultimate Smoky Bacon Cheddar Grilled Cheese Bake takes everything you love about a classic grilled cheese sandwich and elevates it into a shareable casserole bursting with bold flavors. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an indulgent weekend treat, this recipe is comfort food at its finest.
This bake combines the richness of sharp cheddar, the creamy smokiness of gouda, and the savory goodness of bacon, all nestled between layers of golden bread. Smoked paprika and Dijon mustard add just the right depth to balance the dish, ensuring every bite is unforgettable. Let’s explore how to whip up this indulgent masterpiece that’s guaranteed to become a household favorite.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: Smoky, cheesy goodness with a hint of tanginess from the mustard and the umami of crispy bacon.
- Texture: Crispy on the edges, soft and creamy in the middle with chewy bacon pieces.
- Aroma: A comforting fusion of melted cheese and smoky bacon with notes of garlic and paprika.
- Visual Appeal: Golden-brown bubbling cheese layers with sprinkled bacon crumbles on top.
- Skill Level Needed: Easy, perfect even for beginners in the kitchen.
- Special Equipment: 9×13-inch baking dish, whisk, and foil for a foolproof bake.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: Designed for simplicity, this recipe suits cooks of all levels. Its straightforward prep and assembly make it an easy go-to dish.
- Category: Comfort food, baked dishes, main course, or brunch potluck star.
- Cuisine: American-inspired, leaning into Southern comfort food vibes.
- Cost: Accessible with budget-friendly ingredients like bread, cheese, and bacon—all easily found at your local grocery store.
- Season: Perfect year-round, particularly for chilly fall and winter days when warm, cheesy dishes are most comforting.
- Occasion: Ideal for casual family dinners, potlucks, game-day gatherings, or whenever you’re craving indulgent comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Taste and texture appeal: The smoky, cheesy richness perfectly balances with the crispy, buttery bread and bacon. It’s savory decadence in every bite.
Convenience: This dish is easy to assemble and can be prepped ahead for busy nights or weekend brunches.
Nutritional perks: It’s a protein-packed recipe thanks to bacon, eggs, and cheese, making it surprisingly filling when served in portions.
Social value: This bake is a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, potlucks, or game nights. Its shareable, casserole-style serving ensures it’s as practical as it is delicious.
Cost-effective: With staple ingredients like bread and cheese, this dish is an affordable way to feed a group.
The Recipe
Ultimate Smoky Bacon Cheddar Grilled Cheese Bake
Serves: 6-8
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hr
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Sharp knife
- Foil (optional)
Ingredients
- 12 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 1 loaf of country-style bread (about 10 slices), crusts removed
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup butter, room temperature
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and bake the bacon for 15-18 minutes until crisp. Drain on paper towels, then crumble.
- While the bacon cooks, butter one side of each bread slice. Prepare the mayonnaise mixture by combining mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic, black pepper, and salt in a bowl.
- Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Arrange half the bread slices, buttered side down, in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread half the mayonnaise mixture on the bread layer, then sprinkle with half the cheese mixture and bacon crumbles.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, mayonnaise, cheese, and bacon. Pour the milk and beaten egg mixture evenly over the entire dish.
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden-brown.
- Cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Recipe Notes
- For an extra smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon and smoked paprika together.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Try adding caramelized onions for an extra layer of flavor.
