Bacon Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy pasta with crispy, smoky bacon bits. The dish is all about that rich, melty cheese sauce that clings to every elbow macaroni, while the bacon adds a fantastic crunch and a burst of flavor that makes every bite satisfying.
I love making Bacon Mac and Cheese when I want something cozy and filling but still a little special. The bacon really takes this dish up a notch, and I always add a bit more cheese than the recipe calls for because, well, you can never have too much cheese! It’s one of those recipes that instantly makes your kitchen smell amazing and your family smile around the dinner table.
My favorite way to enjoy this dish is hot out of the oven, right when the cheese is gooey, and the bacon is perfectly crispy. It’s great as a main meal or as a side dish alongside some fresh greens. Whenever I make it, I can’t help but sneak a few extra bites before dinner even starts—it’s just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow macaroni: This pasta shape holds cheese sauce well thanks to its small tube form. If you don’t have elbow macaroni, small shells or cavatappi work great too.
Bacon: Bacon adds smoky crunch and flavor. Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative, but cooking it a bit longer helps get it crispy. Pancetta can also bring a nice twist.
Cheddar and mozzarella: Sharp cheddar gives a punch of flavor, while mozzarella adds creamy meltiness. You can swap cheddar for another sharp cheese like gouda or gruyère. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible for smoother melting.
Butter and flour (roux): These create a thick, creamy base for the cheese sauce. For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
How Do You Make a Smooth Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Making a smooth cheese sauce can be tricky but easy once you know the steps.
- Start by cooking the butter and flour together to make a roux. This helps thicken the sauce without lumps.
- Gradually whisk in warm milk, little by little, to avoid clumps forming.
- Keep whisking over medium heat until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Turn heat low before adding cheese, and add it slowly while stirring constantly to prevent cheese from clumping or separating.
These simple steps will give you a creamy, smooth sauce that clings to every piece of pasta perfectly!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling pasta evenly without sticking.
- Skillet or frying pan – to cook bacon crisp and save that tasty bacon fat.
- Medium saucepan – ideal for making the creamy cheese sauce smoothly.
- Whisk – helps you blend the roux and milk without lumps.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring the pasta and cheese sauce gently.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon for diced ham or cooked sausage for a different protein kick.
- Add sautéed spinach or peas for a pop of color and fresh taste.
- Mix in pepper jack or smoked gouda cheese to give a little spice or smokiness.
- Stir in caramelized onions to add sweet depth that balances the savory bacon.
Bacon Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
- 6 slices bacon
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time. You’ll boil the pasta, crisp the bacon, make a creamy cheese sauce, and combine everything quickly for a warm, cheesy meal. Perfect for a tasty dinner any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually around 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
Place the bacon slices in a cold skillet and cook over medium heat until nice and crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces. Keep about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the pan for extra flavor.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture turns a light golden color.
Slowly whisk in the warmed milk, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Continue whisking and cooking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Lower the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste, stirring well to combine.
5. Combine and Serve:
Mix half of the crumbled bacon into the cheese sauce, then add the cooked macaroni. Stir gently until all the pasta is coated in cheesy goodness.
Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish, sprinkle the remaining bacon on top, and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you like.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Bacon Mac and Cheese!
Can I Use Frozen Bacon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bacon, but be sure to thaw it fully in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and become nice and crispy.
Can I Make Bacon Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish as instructed, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven, adding a splash of milk if it seems too thick.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally for even warming.
Can I Substitute Other Cheeses for Cheddar?
Definitely! Sharp gouda, gruyère, or even pepper jack make tasty alternatives. Just make sure to use good melting cheeses to keep that creamy texture.
