Irresistible Smoky Bacon Mac Cheese Recipe You’ll Love

Indulging in a creamy, cheesy bowl of Irresistible Smoky Bacon Mac Cheese is like wrapping yourself in a warm, fluffy blanket on a chilly day. The combination of smoky bacon and rich, velvety cheese creates an aroma that dances through the air, teasing your taste buds and igniting a craving you never knew you had. Imagine that first bite; the cheese stretches like a gooey masterpiece while the crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch, making it impossible to resist going back for more. For more inspiration, check out this more dinner inspirations recipe.

This dish isn’t just about flavors; it’s about memories. I remember the first time I whipped up this irresistible smoky bacon mac cheese recipe for a family gathering. The moment I placed it on the table, my uncle’s eyes lit up like a kid in a candy store. He dove in with reckless abandon, and soon enough, it was declared the star of the meal. Perfect for cozy nights in or lively gatherings with friends, this recipe promises an amazing flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

I still chuckle when I think about how my cousin tried to sneak in vegetables—he thought he could fool us! Spoiler alert: he didn’t succeed.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this delicious dinner recipes recipe.

• Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese; cook until al dente for the best texture.
• Smoked Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for that extra crunch and robust flavor.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for high-quality cheddar; it melts beautifully and packs a punch of flavor.
• Milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess; avoid skim if you want that indulgent texture.
• Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over seasoning; it’s essential for creating a rich sauce.
• Flour: Use all-purpose flour to thicken your cheese sauce perfectly.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These add delightful crunch on top; toast them before sprinkling for extra flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions, then drain.

Crisp the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove from pan and drain on paper towels to absorb excess grease.

Create the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet used for bacon, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth and bubbly; slowly whisk in milk until thickened.

Add Cheese and Seasoning: Remove from heat and stir in sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Everything Together: Fold in cooked macaroni and crispy bacon into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top, then bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Now you have created an irresistible dish that’s sure to impress! Serve hot, grab your fork, and dig into that cheesy goodness!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente. While that’s boiling, sauté the bacon until crispy and set aside. Then, make your cheese sauce in the same pan to capture all those smoky flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this dish! Add some sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. You can also swap in different cheeses for unique flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

There’s nothing quite like hearing friends rave about how delicious this mac and cheese turned out during a cozy gathering—it was gone within minutes!

FAQ

Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well; just adjust cooking time according to package instructions.

What’s the best way to store leftover mac and cheese?

Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge; it should last about three days.

Can I freeze my smoky bacon mac cheese?

Absolutely! Freeze in portions but expect slight texture changes when reheating later.

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Irresistible Smoky Bacon Mac Cheese

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in a creamy bowl of Irresistible Smoky Bacon Mac Cheese, where smoky bacon meets rich, velvety cheese for an unforgettable flavor experience. This comforting dish, topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs, is perfect for cozy nights or lively gatherings. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s bound to become a favorite at your dinner table.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 6 slices thick-cut smoked bacon
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth; gradually whisk in milk until thickened.
4. Remove from heat, stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Fold in cooked macaroni and crispy bacon.
6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle panko on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg