Baked Mac and Cheese with Bacon Recipe - Easy & Delicious

This article guides you through making the best baked mac and cheese with bacon, covering ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for extra creaminess and flavor. It includes variations, serving suggestions, and make-ahead tips to customize the dish to your liking.

How to Make the Best Baked Mac and Cheese with Bacon

Start by cooking 8 oz of bacon until crispy. Drain the grease and set the bacon aside.

Cook 12 oz of elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large pot, melt 4 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup of flour and whisk to form a roux.

Gradually pour in 3 cups of milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens.

Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Fold in the cooked macaroni and half of the crispy bacon. Transfer to a greased baking dish.

Top with the remaining bacon and 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tbsp of melted butter.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Key Tips for Success

• Use sharp cheddar for a richer flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta—it should be slightly firm before baking.
• For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this baked mac and cheese with bacon recipe:

Main Ingredients

• 12 oz elbow macaroni
• 8 oz thick-cut bacon
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Topping Ingredients

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• Reserved crispy bacon

Optional Add-Ins

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Results

Prep the Ingredients

• Cook 8 oz of bacon until crispy, drain, and set aside.
• Boil 12 oz of elbow macaroni until al dente, drain, and set aside.
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Make the Cheese Sauce

• Melt 4 tbsp butter in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add 1/4 cup flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
• Gradually pour in 3 cups milk, whisking constantly.
• Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in 2 cups cheddar and 1 cup mozzarella until smooth.
• Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Combine and Bake

• Mix cooked macaroni and half the bacon into the cheese sauce.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish.
• Top with remaining bacon and breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Tips for Extra Creamy and Flavorful Baked Mac and Cheese

For Creamier Texture

• Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and a bit of cream cheese.
• Add a splash of heavy cream or evaporated milk to the sauce.
• Undercook the pasta slightly—it’ll finish cooking in the oven.

For More Flavor

• Sauté minced garlic or onions in the butter before adding flour.
• Add a pinch of mustard powder or smoked paprika to the cheese sauce.
• Top with extra crispy bacon or breadcrumbs for crunch.

Baking Tips

• Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier serving.
• For a golden crust, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
• Use room-temperature ingredients for smoother sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving Ideas

• Pair with a simple green salad or roasted veggies.
• Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or steak.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for color.

Variations to Try

• Swap bacon for diced ham or smoked sausage.
• Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.
• Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Assemble the dish ahead and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
• Freeze leftovers in portions for quick meals.
• Reheat in the oven for best texture.