Description
Indulge in rich and creamy bacon mac and cheese, a nostalgic comfort food that combines tender elbow macaroni with crispy bacon and a velvety cheese sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 strips thick-cut bacon
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning. Remove bacon, crumble it into pieces, and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, allowing it to foam and bubble gently.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it develops a lightly golden hue, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring it incorporates well. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency that clings to the whisk.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.
- Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste, giving your sauce an aromatic blend.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the creamy cheese sauce and stir in the crumbled bacon until evenly distributed.
- If desired, transfer everything to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy your comforting meal!
Notes
Make-ahead Tips: Prepare the macaroni and cheese a day in advance. Store in the fridge and bake until warmed through when ready.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: bacon mac and cheese, comfort food, pasta recipe, cheesy pasta