Smoky Bacon Mac Cheese (Print-Friendly Version)
This smoky bacon mac and cheese delivers creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and tender pasta in a warm, oven-baked dish. Ideal for casual gatherings or cozy dinners, you'll want this later.
# Ingredients You’ll Need:
→ Dairy
01 -
2 cups whole milk
02 -
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
03 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
→ Meat
04 -
8 ounces bacon, chopped
→ Pasta
05 -
12 ounces pasta shells
→ Pantry
06 -
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
07 -
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
08 -
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
09 -
2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
10 -
1 teaspoon kosher salt
# How to Make It:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
02 -
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crisp. Transfer bacon to paper towels to remove excess grease.
03 -
In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, cooking for 2-3 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in whole milk, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened. Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted.
04 -
Mix cooked pasta shells and crumbled bacon into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
05 -
Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Toss panko breadcrumbs with melted unsalted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Allow the mac and cheese to rest for five minutes before serving to help the sauce set and improve flavor.