Skip to content 
There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy bowl of Bacon Mac and Cheese to hit the spot on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I whipped up this homemade Bacon Mac and Cheese for my family—it was love at first bite, with the crispy bacon bits adding that perfect smoky crunch to the creamy pasta. If you’re craving comfort food that feels indulgent yet simple, this Bacon Mac and Cheese recipe is your go-to. I’ve tweaked it over the years to make it even better, and I’m excited to share it with you today.
In my experience, the key to amazing Bacon Mac and Cheese lies in balancing the rich cheese sauce with just the right amount of bacon. It’s a dish that brings everyone to the table, no matter the occasion. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hosting a casual dinner, this easy Bacon Mac and Cheese will become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into how to make it!
Key Takeaways:
- This Bacon Mac and Cheese combines creamy cheddar sauce with crispy bacon for ultimate comfort food satisfaction.
- Prep and cook time totals under an hour, making it a quick weeknight winner.
- The smoky bacon elevates the classic mac and cheese flavor to new heights.
- Use high-quality sharp cheddar for the best melt and taste results.
- Leftovers store well and reheat easily for multiple meals.
Why You’ll Adore This Bacon Mac and Cheese
Ultimate Comfort in Every Bite: Nothing beats the nostalgia of mac and cheese, but adding bacon takes it to another level. You’ll love how the creamy sauce clings to the pasta, with bacon providing that irresistible crunch. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out.
Family-Friendly and Foolproof: I’ve made this Bacon Mac and Cheese countless times, and it’s always a hit with kids and adults alike. The straightforward steps mean even beginner cooks can nail it without stress. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your tastes.
Rich, Smoky Flavors: The bacon isn’t just a topping—it’s woven throughout this Bacon Mac and Cheese for balanced indulgence. Each forkful delivers a burst of savory goodness that keeps you coming back for more. What I find interesting is how the bacon’s saltiness enhances the cheese without overpowering it.
Versatile for Any Meal: Serve this Bacon Mac and Cheese as a side or main—it’s that flexible. Here’s the thing: it pairs beautifully with simple greens, turning a basic dinner into something special. You won’t believe how easy it is to make it your own.
Essential Ingredients for Bacon Mac and Cheese
Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape is perfect for trapping that cheesy sauce in every nook and cranny. I always go for sturdy elbow macaroni because it holds up well during baking without getting mushy. In this Bacon Mac and Cheese, it provides the hearty base that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show, sharp cheddar brings a bold, tangy bite that’s essential for authentic mac and cheese. Grate it yourself for the smoothest melt—pre-shredded often has additives that affect texture. It melts into a velvety sauce that coats the pasta in this Bacon Mac and Cheese.
Crispy Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds smoky, salty crunch that elevates the entire dish. Cook it until it’s just right, not too chewy, to contrast the creamy elements. In my Bacon Mac and Cheese, the bacon is both mixed in and sprinkled on top for double the deliciousness.
How to Make Bacon Mac and Cheese
Cook the Bacon and Pasta
Start by frying up about 8 slices of bacon in a large skillet until they’re crispy and golden—this usually takes around 8-10 minutes. While that’s happening, boil your elbow macaroni in salted water according to the package, aiming for al dente so it doesn’t overcook later. Drain the pasta and set it aside, but save a bit of that starchy water; it can help thin the sauce if needed for your Bacon Mac and Cheese. The aroma of sizzling bacon will have everyone hovering in the kitchen, I promise.
Prepare the Cheesy Sauce
In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, whisk in butter, flour, and milk to create a roux—stir constantly over medium heat until it thickens, about 5 minutes. Gradually add shredded sharp cheddar and a touch of mustard powder for that extra zing, stirring until it’s smooth and bubbly. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon; if it’s too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water. This step is crucial for the creamy heart of your Bacon Mac and Cheese, and the sensory payoff is worth every stir.
Assemble and Bake
Mix the cooked pasta and chopped bacon into the cheese sauce, then transfer everything to a greased baking dish. Top with more bacon bits and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for crunch, then bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let it rest for a few minutes post-oven to set—this Bacon Mac and Cheese is best enjoyed hot, with that irresistible pull of melted cheese. In my experience, this final bake melds all the flavors perfectly.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Bacon Mac and Cheese Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, reserving 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
- Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet with bacon fat, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mustard powder until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked macaroni and half of the chopped bacon to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine evenly.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining bacon and breadcrumbs if using.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving your delicious Bacon Mac and Cheese.
Pro Tips for the Best Bacon Mac and Cheese
Don’t Skip the Bacon Fat: Using the rendered fat from the bacon adds incredible flavor depth to your sauce—it’s what makes this Bacon Mac and Cheese unforgettable.
Freshly Grated Cheese Melts Better: Avoid pre-shredded varieties; grating your own ensures a silky sauce without clumps.
Rest Before Serving: Give your Bacon Mac and Cheese a few minutes out of the oven to set, making it easier to scoop and serve.
You Must Know
- This recipe serves 6-8 people, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
- It’s naturally gluten-free adaptable by swapping pasta and flour.
- Bacon Mac and Cheese freezes well for up to 3 months if portioned properly.
- Always use whole milk for the creamiest sauce texture.
How to Store Bacon Mac and Cheese
To keep your Bacon Mac and Cheese fresh, let it cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. It will stay good in the fridge for up to 4 days. For reheating, pop it in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess—trust me, it tastes almost as good as fresh.
Customizing Your Bacon Mac and Cheese
If you’re looking to switch things up, try adding diced jalapeños for a spicy kick or swapping cheddar for gouda in your Bacon Mac and Cheese. For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based bacon alternatives—they crisp up nicely and keep the smoky vibe. I’ve even linked it with veggies like broccoli; check out our Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe for pairing ideas. These tweaks make it endlessly adaptable to your preferences.
What to Serve with Bacon Mac and Cheese
Balance the richness of Bacon Mac and Cheese with a fresh green salad tossed in vinaigrette—something simple like mixed greens with cherry tomatoes works wonders. For heartier meals, roasted vegetables or garlic bread on the side add nice contrast. Don’t forget a crisp white wine or iced tea to wash it down; it’s all about that comforting vibe.
Bacon Mac and Cheese
This Bacon Mac and Cheese Recipe is easy to make on the stove top! It's FULL of flavor from caramelized onions, hickory smoked bacon, and pasta shells smothered in a creamy 3-cheese blend!
Timing
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 01 2 large yellow onions
- 02 2 Tablespoons butter
- 03 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 04 6 strips thick-cut bacon (hickory smoked is great)
- 05 1 lb. medium pasta shells
- 06 1/4 cup butter (not needed if you have enough bacon drippings)
- 07 1/4 cup flour
- 08 1 cup heavy cream
- 09 2 cups milk
- 10 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 11 ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 12 ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 13 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 14 1 cup gruyere cheese (shredded)
- 15 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 16 ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
FILED UNDER:
NUTRITION FACTS (PER SERVING)
Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Mac and Cheese
Can I make Bacon Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can assemble this Bacon Mac and Cheese up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Just bake it fresh when ready, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time. It’s a lifesaver for busy days or holiday prep.
How long does Bacon Mac and Cheese last in the fridge?
Your Bacon Mac and Cheese will keep safely in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. Beyond that, freeze it to extend freshness. Always reheat thoroughly to enjoy it at its best.
Is Bacon Mac and Cheese gluten-free?
Not by default, but it can be easily made gluten-free with gluten-free pasta and a cornstarch slurry instead of flour. I’ve tested this variation, and it holds up wonderfully without sacrificing creaminess.
Can I use pre-cooked bacon in Bacon Mac and Cheese?
Yes, pre-cooked bacon works fine in this Bacon Mac and Cheese—just chop it up and stir it in during assembly. It saves time but still delivers that smoky flavor; however, fresh-cooked bacon adds extra crispiness if you have the moment.
What’s the best cheese for Bacon Mac and Cheese?
Sharp cheddar is my top pick for its bold taste, but a mix with mozzarella can make the sauce even stretchier. Experiment to find your favorite blend for the ultimate Bacon Mac and Cheese experience.
How do I make vegan Bacon Mac and Cheese?
For a vegan version of this Bacon Mac and Cheese, use plant-based pasta, cashew milk, nutritional yeast for cheesiness, and vegan bacon bits. It mimics the original surprisingly well—check our Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin Recipe for more dairy-free inspo.
Why is my Bacon Mac and Cheese sauce grainy?
A grainy sauce often comes from high heat or low-quality cheese; stir gently and use freshly grated cheddar for smoothness. If it happens, blend in a bit more milk off the heat to fix it quickly.
Can kids eat Bacon Mac and Cheese?
Of course—it’s a kid favorite! Just chop the bacon small to avoid any chewing issues, and serve smaller portions. For more family-friendly ideas, try our Best Ever Banana Muffins Recipe as a sweet side.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Bacon Mac and Cheese has been one of my favorite kitchen adventures—it’s simple, satisfying, and always brings smiles. From the crispy bacon to the gooey cheese, every element comes together for pure comfort. I encourage you to give this recipe a try tonight; you won’t regret it, and I’d love to hear how your version turns out!