Baked Macaroni & Cheese with Bacon: Ultimate Comfort Food!
Introduction to Baked Macaroni & Cheese with Bacon
Few dishes scream comfort like Baked Macaroni & Cheese with Bacon. This classic American favorite gets an irresistible upgrade by folding in crispy, smoky bacon bits into rich, creamy cheese sauce layered with tender macaroni pasta, then baked to golden, bubbly perfection. Every forkful delivers a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy indulgence and the satisfying crunch of bacon, making it the ultimate comfort food for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where pure deliciousness is required.
Why Is This Baked Macaroni & Cheese with Bacon Recipe So Popular?
This recipe’s popularity stems from:
- Classic Comfort: Combines the beloved creaminess of mac and cheese with the irresistible flavor of bacon.
- Baked Perfection: The crispy top crust contrasts beautifully with the soft, gooey pasta inside.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and familiar flavors.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding families or groups.
- Customizable: Easily add different cheeses or mix-ins.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and baked when needed.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Macaroni & Cheese with Bacon:
- Creamy and Cheesy: Loads of melted cheese create a silky sauce coating every pasta piece.
- Smoky Bacon: Crisp bacon bits add savory depth and crunch.
- Golden Crust: The baked cheese topping is crunchy and flavorful.
- Easy to Make: Straightforward steps yield spectacular results.
- Comfort Food Bliss: Perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings.
Here’s What You’ll Need:
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni or your favorite small pasta
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, enhances flavor)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
How to Make Baked Macaroni & Cheese with Bacon:
Follow these simple steps to create the ultimate cheesy, bacon-filled pasta bake.
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2:
Cook macaroni according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crisp. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Reserve some bacon fat in the pan.
Step 4:
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook, whisking constantly, for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
Step 5:
Gradually whisk in warm milk, continuing to whisk until sauce thickens and bubbles, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 6:
Remove sauce from heat and stir in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until cheese is melted and smooth.
Step 7:
Add cooked macaroni and crispy bacon (reserve a small amount for topping) to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
Step 8:
Pour the cheesy pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Step 9:
Mix panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and sprinkle evenly over the top. Scatter remaining bacon bits on top.
Step 10:
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 11:
Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
- Don’t overcook pasta; slightly undercooked pasta holds up better during baking.
- Warm milk before adding to the roux to prevent lumps.
- For extra smoky flavor, cook bacon until just crispy but not burnt.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle spicy kick.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave but may lose some crispness on top.
Equipment Needed:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large pot for pasta
- Skillet for bacon
- Saucepan for cheese sauce
- Whisk
- Mixing spoon
Variations of Baked Macaroni & Cheese with Bacon:
- Four Cheese: Add Gruyère, fontina, or Monterey Jack to your cheese blend.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Veggie Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli florets.
- Crunchy Topping: Mix crushed Ritz crackers with breadcrumbs for extra texture.
- Creamier Sauce: Add cream cheese or half-and-half to the sauce.
- Smoked Bacon: Use smoked or thick-cut bacon for more intense flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Macaroni & Cheese with Bacon:
- Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies to balance richness.
- Pair with barbecue ribs or grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
- Offer hot sauce or ketchup on the side for dipping.
- Complement with crusty garlic bread for extra indulgence.
- Great as a side dish for holiday meals or potlucks.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
30-35 minutes
Total Time:
45-50 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, recipe serves 6):
- Calories: Approximately 600-650 kcal
- Protein: 30 grams
- Fat: 35 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sodium: 800 mg
FAQs about Baked Macaroni & Cheese with Bacon:
Q: Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
A: Yes, just add it in at the same step to combine with the pasta and cheese sauce.
Q: What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
A: Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers work well as a topping substitute.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead?
A: Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then bake just before serving, adding extra baking time if cold.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Q: What cheeses work best?
A: Sharp cheddar is a must, but blending with mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack adds creaminess and flavor.
Final Thoughts:
Baked Macaroni & Cheese with Bacon is the ultimate comfort food, delivering creamy, cheesy pasta layered with smoky, crispy bacon and topped with a crunchy golden crust. It’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough to serve for family dinners, special occasions, or gatherings. This dish satisfies every craving for warm, hearty, and flavorful comfort food — a true crowd-pleaser that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
