Bacon Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food that brings together creamy, cheesy pasta with crispy, smoky bacon bits. The gooey cheese sauce coats every elbow macaroni, while the bacon adds a perfect crunch and a burst of flavor that makes this dish so satisfying.
I love making this when I want something simple but super tasty. The smell of bacon cooking alone is enough to get me excited, and mixing it into the cheesy pasta makes the whole meal feel special without any fuss. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy bacon mac and cheese is fresh out of the oven when it’s golden on top and still bubbling. I often serve it with a green salad on the side just to add a little freshness. It’s a great dish to share with friends or family because everyone seems to love that combination of crispy bacon and creamy cheese.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This pasta shape holds cheese sauce perfectly. You can swap for shells or cavatappi if you like.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds smoky flavor and crunch. Turkey bacon works well if you want a lighter option.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, while mozzarella adds creaminess. Feel free to mix in gouda or Monterey Jack for a different taste.
Butter & Flour: These make the roux that thickens the sauce. For gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.
Milk: Whole milk gives the creamiest sauce. You can use 2% or a plant-based milk like oat milk for a dairy-free twist, but the sauce may be less rich.
Panko Bread Crumbs: They provide a nice crunchy topping. If unavailable, regular bread crumbs or crushed crackers work too.
How Do You Make a Thick and Smooth Cheese Sauce?
Making the cheese sauce starts with a roux—melting butter and whisking in flour until bubbly but not browned. This cooks out the flour taste and helps thicken the sauce.
Slowly whisk in the milk to avoid lumps. Keep whisking over medium heat until the sauce thickens enough to coat a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from heat before adding cheese—this prevents cheese from becoming grainy. Stir in cheese slowly until melted and smooth. Season lightly and adjust as needed.
Tip: Use shredded cheese rather than blocks for faster melting and smoother sauce. Also, avoid very low-fat cheeses as they don’t melt well.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – I use it to cook the pasta easily without any mess.
- Large skillet or frying pan – perfect for cooking the bacon crispy and saving on dishes.
- Medium saucepan – helps you make the cheese sauce smoothly and keep it hot.
- Whisk – essential for mixing the sauce ingredients until it’s silky without lumps.
- Baking dish or ramekins – to bake the mac and cheese until bubbly and golden on top.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate portions of ingredients.
- Cutting board and knife – for chopping bacon and parsley.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon for cooked sausage or ham for a different meaty flavor.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers for added veggies.
- Use different cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper Jack for varied flavors.
- Stir in a dash of hot sauce, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper to add a spicy kick.
How to Make Bacon Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 6 slices bacon
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Topping (Optional):
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare, 20 minutes to bake, and a few minutes for clean-up and garnishing. Total time is roughly 35 minutes; perfect for a cozy dinner that’s quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta and Bacon:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, crisp the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until nice and crunchy. Drain the bacon on paper towels and crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Keep half for mixing in and save the rest for topping.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste and starts bubbling, but don’t let it brown. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Keep cooking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Take the pan off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Combine and Bake:
Mix half the crumbled bacon and the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Pour everything into your prepared baking dish or individual ramekins. If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle the panko bread crumbs evenly over your mac and cheese, then scatter the rest of the bacon on top. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden. Take it out, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and crispy Bacon Mac and Cheese!
Can I Use Frozen Bacon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bacon, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. This helps the bacon cook evenly and get crispy.
Can I Make Bacon Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mac and cheese and bake it just before serving, or assemble and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce seems thickened.
Can I Substitute Different Cheeses?
Yes! Feel free to swap in gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. Just use about the same amount and shred the cheese for best melting.