Go Back
+ servings

Bacon Mac and Cheese

Please rate us
Indulge in this creamy and cheesy Bacon Mac and Cheese, a perfect comfort food combining crispy bacon and gooey cheese over perfectly cooked pasta.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Bacon
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni The backbone of the dish, providing that beloved texture.
  • 6 strips bacon, chopped For that irresistible crunch and smokiness.
Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter Adds richness to the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Helps thicken the cheese sauce.
  • 2 cups milk The base that makes the sauce creamy.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Adds to the decadence of the sauce.
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Essential for bold cheese flavor.
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded Adds creaminess and stretch.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder For a flavorful boost.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder For a flavorful boost.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Enhances the overall flavor.
Toppings
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Adds a salty punch to the topping.
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs A crispy topping for texture.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped For a touch of color and freshness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve the bacon fat in the skillet.
  4. Add the unsalted butter to the bacon fat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Cook and stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
  6. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until fully melted and creamy.
  7. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Assembly and Baking
  1. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring it’s well coated.
  2. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with bacon, grated Parmesan cheese, and bread crumbs.
  3. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g

Notes

Leftover Bacon Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain that crispy topping—around 350°F for 15-20 minutes should do the trick. You can also freeze it for up to three months.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!