If you’re looking for a comforting dish that combines the rich creaminess of cheese and the smoky flavor of bacon, this Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with Bacon is the answer. It’s a classic recipe that elevates the standard mac and cheese into something truly indulgent. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night in, this dish is sure to please.
Imagine diving into a bowl of warm, cheesy goodness, with crispy bacon bits scattered throughout. Each bite is a delightful mix of creamy, cheesy pasta and savory bacon, making it a dish that’s hard to resist. The best part? It’s easy to make and doesn’t require any special skills – just a love for good food.
Decadent Comfort Food
There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty dish like Baked Mac and Cheese with Bacon. This classic recipe transforms the familiar mac and cheese into a delightful experience, where the creamy richness of cheese meets the smoky goodness of crispy bacon bits.
Imagine digging into this dish, where every bite offers a luscious combination of gooey cheese and savory bacon, all enveloped in perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the ideal choice for family dinners or cozy evenings spent at home, appealing to the taste buds of both young and old alike.
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
This Baked Mac and Cheese with Bacon features al dente elbow macaroni, enveloped in a rich cheese sauce that’s packed with flavor. The sharp cheddar and mozzarella meld together beautifully, creating a creamy base that contrasts with the crunchy bacon topping. The meticulous balance of textures makes this dish a standout.
With hints of garlic and onion powder added to the cheese sauce, each forkful is bursting with flavor. The crunchy breadcrumb topping, if chosen, adds an extra layer of texture, enhancing the overall experience and making it truly satisfying.
A Rustic Presentation
Served in a rustic casserole dish, this baked mac and cheese is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. The golden-brown crust, achieved through baking, is inviting and promises a delightful crunch upon breaking through to the cheesy layer beneath.
To top it off, a sprig of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also hints at the freshness within the dish. The setting—a wooden table paired with a rustic napkin and a fork—invites you to savor the moment and enjoy every bite.
Preparation Made Simple
The preparation for this dish is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all levels. Start by cooking the elbow macaroni until it reaches the right al dente texture, then shift your focus to creating the creamy cheese sauce.
By melting butter and whisking in flour before gradually adding milk, you’ll create a smooth base for the cheese. Stirring in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella brings everything together, ensuring a velvety texture that binds the pasta and bacon seamlessly.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re planning a family gathering, a potluck, or a quiet night in, this Baked Mac and Cheese with Bacon is an excellent choice. Its comfort and richness make it suitable for a variety of occasions, bringing warmth and satisfaction to the table.
With a preparation time of only 10 minutes and a cook time of about 30 minutes, this dish fits well into a busy schedule, allowing you to serve something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
This dish serves four and packs a hearty nutritional punch, featuring around 450 calories per serving. With 25 grams of fat and 18 grams of protein, it’s a filling option that provides energy for the day.
Pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. This way, you can enjoy the indulgent flavors of the mac and cheese while balancing the plate with some freshness.
Decadent Baked Mac and Cheese with Bacon
This Baked Mac and Cheese with Bacon features al dente pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, topped with crunchy bacon and baked to golden perfection. It’s a dish that balances creaminess and crunch flawlessly.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Add the cooked macaroni and crumbled bacon to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. If desired, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle on top for extra crunch.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Baked Mac and Cheese with Bacon!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
