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There’s nothing quite like digging into a steaming bowl of Bacon Mac and Cheese on a chilly evening—it’s comfort food at its finest, isn’t it? I remember the first time I whipped up this Bacon Mac and Cheese for a family gathering; the aroma of crispy bacon mingling with melted cheese had everyone crowding the kitchen. In my experience, adding that smoky bacon takes the classic mac and cheese to a whole new level of indulgence. If you’ve ever craved a homemade version that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, you’re in for a treat.
Here’s the thing: traditional mac and cheese is great, but this Bacon Mac and Cheese version amps up the savory goodness without much extra effort. I’ve tweaked the recipe over the years to make it foolproof, and now I’m excited to share it with you. Let’s dive in and get you making your own Bacon Mac and Cheese that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Key Takeaways:
- Indulge in the ultimate comfort with Bacon Mac and Cheese, featuring crispy bacon and gooey cheese.
- Ready in under an hour, this recipe saves time without skimping on flavor.
- The smoky bacon pairs perfectly with sharp cheddar for an irresistible taste.
- Reserve some bacon fat for the sauce to enhance richness.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently to maintain creaminess.
Why You’ll Adore This Bacon Mac and Cheese
Ultimate Comfort Food: Nothing beats the nostalgia of mac and cheese, but this Bacon Mac and Cheese elevates it with that irresistible bacon crunch. I’ve found it brings back childhood memories while feeling gourmet. You’ll love how it warms you from the inside out.
Family-Pleasing Flavor: With layers of cheese and smoky bacon, this dish disappears fast at gatherings. It’s hearty yet simple, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. Now, you might be thinking it’s too indulgent, but trust me, it’s worth every bite.
Customizable Goodness: This Bacon Mac and Cheese lets you add veggies or swap cheeses to suit your taste. In my experience, a bit of jalapeño adds a fun kick. It’s versatile enough for kids and adults alike.
Easy to Prepare: No fancy equipment needed—just basic kitchen tools for creamy results. Let’s be honest, who doesn’t want a delicious meal without the hassle? This recipe makes cooking feel effortless and rewarding.
Essential Ingredients for Bacon Mac and Cheese
Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape holds onto the creamy sauce like a dream, ensuring every bite of your Bacon Mac and Cheese is perfectly coated. I always opt for sturdy pasta to avoid mushiness during baking. It’s the base that soaks up all those cheesy flavors.
Crispy Bacon: Thick-cut bacon provides that smoky, savory punch that defines Bacon Mac and Cheese. Cooking it until crisp adds texture contrast to the smooth sauce. In my experience, using high-quality bacon makes a noticeable difference in taste.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Grated sharp cheddar melts beautifully into the sauce, giving your Bacon Mac and Cheese its signature gooey texture and bold flavor. I recommend shredding it yourself for better melting. This ingredient ties everything together with its tangy bite.
How to Make Bacon Mac and Cheese
Cook the Bacon and Pasta
Start by crisping up about 8 slices of bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until golden and crunchy—this should take around 8-10 minutes. While that’s happening, boil your elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions, but cook it just al dente to prevent sogginess in the final Bacon Mac and Cheese dish. Drain the pasta and set it aside, then crumble the cooked bacon, reserving a tablespoon of the fat for the sauce. The sizzling sounds and bacon aroma will have your kitchen smelling amazing right from the start.
Prepare the Cheesy Sauce
Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, then whisk in 1/4 cup of flour to create a roux—stir for about 2 minutes until it turns golden. Slowly pour in 3 cups of milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps, bringing it to a simmer until thickened, which takes roughly 5 minutes. Stir in 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until smooth and velvety, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of mustard powder for extra depth. This creamy base is what makes your Bacon Mac and Cheese so luxurious.
Combine and Bake
Toss the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and half the crumbled bacon in a large bowl, then transfer everything to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish for even baking. Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top, along with a bit more cheese if you like it extra bubbly. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling—this step infuses the flavors throughout the Bacon Mac and Cheese. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to set up nicely.
Ingredients
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping, optional)
Bacon Mac and Cheese Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and crumble, reserving 1 tablespoon of bacon fat.
- Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In the skillet with bacon fat, melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook for 2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in 2 1/2 cups cheese until melted; season with salt, pepper, and mustard powder.
- Combine pasta, sauce, and half the bacon in a baking dish. Top with remaining bacon and 1/2 cup cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly. Let rest before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Bacon Mac and Cheese
Don’t Skip the Roux: This step ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce that clings to every noodle in your Bacon Mac and Cheese.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded varieties have additives that prevent optimal melting in the dish.
Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter before baking for extra texture.
You Must Know
- This Bacon Mac and Cheese is best enjoyed fresh from the oven for peak creaminess.
- Whole milk yields the richest sauce, but you can use a mix with cream for even more luxury.
- Baking helps meld flavors, but watch closely to avoid over-browning the top.
- Portion control is key—it’s hearty, so a little goes a long way at meals.
How to Store Bacon Mac and Cheese
To keep your Bacon Mac and Cheese fresh, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months, though the texture might soften slightly upon thawing. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F with a splash of milk to restore creaminess, avoiding the microwave to prevent drying out. I’ve found this method keeps the bacon’s crunch intact as much as possible.
Customizing Your Bacon Mac and Cheese
If you’re looking to tweak this Bacon Mac and Cheese, try adding peas or broccoli for a veggie boost, or swap cheddar for gouda for a milder taste. For spice lovers, diced jalapeños stirred into the sauce bring heat without overpowering the bacon. In my experience, gluten-free pasta works seamlessly as a substitute. Check out our gluten-free mac and cheese recipe for more inspiration on variations.
What to Serve with Bacon Mac and Cheese
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness of this dish perfectly. Grilled vegetables like zucchini or asparagus add a smoky complement to the bacon’s flavor. For carbs, garlic bread or cornbread soaks up the cheesy goodness. Pair it with a light beer or iced tea to balance the meal without overwhelming the palate.
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?
Yes, assemble the Bacon Mac and Cheese up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to the bake time straight from the fridge. It’s a great make-ahead option for potlucks.
How long does Bacon Mac and Cheese last in the fridge?
Properly stored, your Bacon Mac and Cheese will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Beyond that, freeze it to extend freshness. Always check for spoilage before reheating.
Is Bacon Mac and Cheese gluten-free?
Not as written, due to the flour in the sauce and pasta, but you can easily adapt it with gluten-free alternatives. I’ve had great success with a 1:1 flour substitute and rice pasta. For full details, see our gluten-free guides.
Can I use turkey bacon in Bacon Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely, turkey bacon works well in this Bacon Mac and Cheese for a leaner option, though it crisps differently. Cook it thoroughly to mimic the flavor of pork bacon. It reduces fat without sacrificing much taste.
What’s the best cheese for Bacon Mac and Cheese?
Sharp cheddar is ideal for its meltability and tang, but mixing in mozzarella adds stretchiness. Experiment with what you have on hand. This flexibility is part of what makes Bacon Mac and Cheese so versatile.
How do I make vegan Bacon Mac and Cheese?
For a vegan twist on Bacon Mac and Cheese, use plant-based bacon and a cashew-based cheese sauce. Nutritional yeast provides that cheesy essence. It’s surprisingly close to the original—try our vegan mac recipe as a base.
Can kids eat Bacon Mac and Cheese?
Yes, it’s a hit with kids for its fun, familiar flavors, but chop the bacon small to avoid chewiness. Milder cheeses like American can tone down the sharpness. Serve in fun shapes to make it even more appealing.
Why is my Bacon Mac and Cheese watery?
It could be from overcooked pasta absorbing too much sauce or thin milk—opt for whole milk next time. Drain pasta well and let the sauce thicken fully. These tweaks ensure your Bacon Mac and Cheese stays creamy.
Final Thoughts
From the first crispy bite of bacon to the last cheesy strand, this Bacon Mac and Cheese is pure joy in a bowl. I’ve shared it countless times, and it never fails to bring smiles. Give this recipe a try this weekend—you won’t regret it. Tag us in your creations; we’d love to see your version!