Mac and Cheese with Bacon takes the classic comfort dish to a new level with crispy, savory bacon mixed into creamy cheese sauce and tender macaroni. This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a satisfying side dish, guaranteed to please everyone!
- 200g elbow macaroni
- 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Cook the macaroni: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan, let it cool, and then crumble it into small pieces. Leave some bacon fat in the pan for flavor.
- Make the cheese sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter in the leftover bacon fat over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and stir for about 1 minute until smooth.
- Add milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Add cheese and bacon: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is well coated with the cheesy bacon mixture.
- Optional topping: If you like a crunchy topping, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake for 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy Mac and Cheese with Bacon!