Bacon Mac And Cheese Recipe
Few dishes scream comfort like a warm, cheesy bowl of Bacon Mac and Cheese. This recipe takes the classic macaroni and cheese to the next level with crispy, smoky bacon bits that infuse every bite with bold flavor. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a potluck, or just a comforting weeknight treat, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. It’s a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike and can be made ahead for easy meal planning.
Ingredients Of Bacon Mac And Cheese Recipe
Why You Will Love This Bacon Mac And Cheese Recipe
This Bacon Mac and Cheese is ultra-creamy, indulgent, and loaded with rich, cheesy flavor. The bacon adds a salty crunch that perfectly balances the creamy pasta. It’s easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The crispy bacon and gooey cheese make it feel like something from your favorite restaurant—without leaving your kitchen!
Preparation Process Of Bacon Mac And Cheese Recipe
You’ll start by cooking the macaroni until al dente. Meanwhile, you’ll whip up a simple roux-based cheese sauce using flour, butter, milk, and cheese. Once thickened, you fold in the cooked pasta and bacon, stir everything together, and serve it as-is or bake for a golden top.
Step By Step Instructions
Cook the pasta
Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the roux
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a smooth paste.
Add the milk
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring until the sauce begins to thicken.
Add cheese and seasonings
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Fold in bacon and pasta
Add the cooked pasta and chopped bacon to the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Optional: Bake it
For a baked version, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
How to Serve?
- As a main dish with a side salad
- With garlic bread for a hearty meal
- As a side at BBQs or potlucks
- In individual ramekins for parties
- Topped with green onions or extra bacon bits for garnish
Tips & Variations
Use smoked gouda or mozzarella for extra cheesy depth.
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.
Use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon as a healthier alternative.
Stir in cooked veggies like broccoli or peas for a balanced meal.
Make it gluten-free by using GF pasta and flour
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 26g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
Recipe Card
Bacon Mac And Cheese Recipe
Course: Banana Bread Recipe4
servings10
minutes20
minutes450
kcalThis Bacon Mac and Cheese Recipe is a rich and creamy twist on a classic comfort food favorite. Loaded with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and perfectly cooked macaroni, it’s everything you love in one cheesy, smoky bowl. Whether baked for a golden crust or served straight from the stovetop, this dish is quick, satisfying, and family-friendly. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or when you’re just craving something cozy. Make it your own with different cheeses or add-ins, and enjoy a warm, homemade comfort meal that’s guaranteed to impress every time.
Ingredients
Elbow macaroni – 2 cups
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese – 2 cups
Whole milk – 2 cups
All-purpose flour – 2 tablespoons
Butter – 2 tablespoons
Cooked crispy bacon, chopped – 1 cup
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
Garlic powder – 1/2 teaspoon
Paprika – 1/2 teaspoon (optional for smokiness)
Grated Parmesan cheese – 1/4 cup (optional topping)
Directions
- Cook the pasta
- Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a smooth paste.
- Add the milk
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Add cheese and seasonings
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Fold in bacon and pasta
- Add the cooked pasta and chopped bacon to the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Optional: Bake it
- For a baked version, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Make ahead: Prepare, cool, and bake just before serving.
- For extra crunch, top with breadcrumbs before baking.
FAQs
Conclusion
This Bacon Mac and Cheese Recipe is comfort food done right—gooey, rich, and packed with flavor. The crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch to every bite, while the creamy cheese sauce keeps things irresistibly indulgent. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a dinner, or simply satisfying your own cravings, this dish is guaranteed to hit the spot. Easy, customizable, and unforgettable, it’s a must-have in every home cook’s recipe box.
