This Baked Mac and Cheese with Bacon is the ultimate comfort food. This rich, creamy, cheesy pasta is grilled to perfection with golden, crunchy toppings and smoky bacon in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holidays, or potlucks, it’s a family favorite and guaranteed to disappear quickly!
Why we love this recipe:
Made with homemade cheese sauce and simple ingredients, this recipe gives you a classic creamy texture with a flavor upgrade with crispy bacon and a grilled finish.
- Ultra Creamy Cheese Sauce
- Crispy golden topping
- Savory bacon flavor
- Perfect for family dinners or gatherings
- kind in advance
It’s a cozy meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Tips for the best baked mac and cheese:
- use freshly shredded cheese For the smoothest sauce.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. It will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use a mix of different cheeses for best flavor and melting.
- For extra crunch, bake for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Easy variations and add-ons:
Make yourself healthier
- Use whole wheat pasta
- Add steamed broccoli or spinach.
Change the Cheese
- gouda
- gruyere
- Monterrey Jack
Add protein
- shredded chicken
- ham
- ground turkey
Pre-made and stored:
Stay ahead:
Collect the plates and refrigerate them. 24 hours Before baking.
refrigerator:
Store leftovers for up to 1 hour. 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze (unbaked or baked) for up to 1 hour. 2 months.
More comfort food dinner ideas:
Baked Mac and Cheese
Baked Mac and Cheese with Bacon is a rich, creamy pasta baked to perfection with a golden, crunchy topping.
Serving Size: 8
Cook pasta according to package directions. al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the bacon until crisp, then crumble and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Coat it in flour and boil it. 1 minute. Slowly add the milk and cream and cook until thickened. Mix in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Add cooked pasta and bacon to cheese sauce. Stir until completely coated. Pour into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the top.
Bake at 375°F until top is bubbly and golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes. Top with sliced green onions, if desired. Let cool slightly and serve warm.
