bacon mac and cheese recipe
The Best bacon mac and cheese recipe
I love this recipe because it’s adaptable. You can make it extra rich by adding a little extra cheese or a splash of cream, or keep it lighter with just sharp cheddar if you prefer. It’s also great for meal prep—cook the macaroni ahead, store the bacon and cheese mixture separately, and assemble just before serving so it stays creamy and not too soggy. My kids, especially my picky one, will eat it straight from the bowl, but my husband always insists on a crispy top layer for that perfect texture. Plus, it’s surprisingly good for you in a way that doesn’t feel like a sacrifice. The protein from the bacon and cheese keeps you full longer, and the whole grain pasta adds fiber without making the dish taste like it’s missing something. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but actually balances out well, making it a smart choice for both family dinners and special occasions.
Bacon Mac and Cheese
A rich, cheesy pasta dish elevated with crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and texture. Perfect for a comforting meal!
🥘Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 4 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (extra)
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon, drain on paper towels, and set aside. Chop the cooked bacon into small pieces. -
2
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside. If using, sauté diced bell peppers, celery, and red onion in the bacon fat for 3-4 minutes. -
3
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth. -
4
Add heavy cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until fully melted. -
5
Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Fold in the sautéed veggies (if using) and chopped bacon. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. -
6
Top with extra crumbled bacon, parsley, and a sprinkle of additional cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Cheese grater
- Oven
- Baking dish (9×13 inches)
- Knife and cutting board
- Pasta cooker or pot with a colander
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end.
- Substitute Gruyère with Monterey Jack or use a mix of cheeses for variety.
- Add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy, nutty flavor without dairy.
Watch Video Of How Bacon Mac and Cheese Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Mac and Cheese
How do I make the perfect crispy bacon topping for mac and cheese?
To achieve the perfect crispy bacon topping, cook the bacon in batches until fully crispy, then drain off excess fat. Once crispy, break the bacon into bite-sized pieces and place them directly on top of the baked mac and cheese. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes after adding the bacon.
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Can I use pre-cooked bacon instead of fresh bacon?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon, but ensure it’s fully crispy. If it’s not fully cooked, you may need to pan-fry it until crispy. Pre-cooked bacon can be a time-saving option, but the texture might differ slightly from fresh, homemade bacon.
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What cheese blends work best for mac and cheese?
A classic blend includes sharp cheddar (for flavor) and American cheese (for meltability). Other great options include Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a mix of cheddar and Parmesan. Avoid overly soft cheeses like mozzarella unless you want a creamier texture, as they can make the dish too gooey.
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How can I make my mac and cheese extra creamy?
For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the cheese sauce while it’s simmering. You can also stir in a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt for richness. Additionally, using a higher fat content cheese like Gruyère or sharp cheddar helps create a smoother, richer sauce.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time, but reheating can affect texture. Store the baked dish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway. Adding a splash of milk or cream before reheating can help restore creaminess.
