Baked Mac and Cheese
This Baked Mac and Cheese with Bacon is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, pasta baked to perfection with a golden, crispy topping.
Servings 8
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled (about 1/2 cup)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tbsp butter melted
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 green onions sliced (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and cream, cooking until thickened. Stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add cooked pasta and bacon to the cheese sauce. Stir until fully coated. Pour into a greased 9x13 baking dish.
- In a small bowl, toss together the breadcrumbs, butter, and parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the top.
- Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, until and bubbly and golden brown on top. Top with sliced green onions, if desired. Let cool slightly, then serve warm.
