Mac and Cheese with Bacon Casserole
This Mac and Cheese with Bacon Casserole takes a classic comfort food to the next level. With creamy, cheesy pasta and crispy bacon, it’s a decadent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The rich cheese sauce envelops each macaroni bite, and the bacon adds a savory, smoky crunch. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, this casserole will surely be a crowd-pleaser!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serves: 6-8 people
Ingredients:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape of your choice)
- 1/2 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat the oven and prepare the pasta:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside. -
Make the cheese sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and slightly golden. -
Add the milk and thicken the sauce:
Gradually add the milk to the butter-flour mixture, stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. -
Melt the cheese into the sauce:
Lower the heat to low and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. -
Combine the pasta, bacon, and cheese sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, crumbled bacon, and cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated. -
Transfer to the casserole dish:
Pour the pasta and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy, golden topping. -
Bake the casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. -
Serve and enjoy:
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with crispy bacon!
Serving Tips:
- Pair with a side salad for some freshness to balance out the richness of the casserole.
- Serve with garlic bread or a soft dinner roll for an extra indulgent meal.
- Top with extra crispy bacon for an extra crunch right before serving.
- Add a squeeze of hot sauce on top for a spicy kick if you like a little heat.
- Serve as a main course with a simple side like steamed vegetables, or serve it as a hearty side dish for grilled meats.
Variations:
- Cheese variety: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda, for unique flavors.
- Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the cheese sauce for a spicy twist.
- Garlic and herb: Add minced garlic and dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the cheese sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Vegetarian option: Skip the bacon and add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Buffalo chicken mac and cheese: Add shredded cooked chicken and a bit of buffalo sauce for a tangy, spicy version.
- Creamier texture: Use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of whole milk for a richer sauce.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish gluten-free.
- Crumb topping: Add a crispy breadcrumb topping mixed with a little butter for extra crunch.
- Loaded mac and cheese: Add in sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers for more flavor and texture.
- Cajun mac and cheese: Add Cajun seasoning for a flavorful, spicy twist.
20 FAQs for Mac and Cheese with Bacon Casserole:
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Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can use penne, shells, or any pasta shape you prefer. -
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge. -
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Make sure to cover it well and freeze for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. -
What type of cheese is best for mac and cheese?
Sharp cheddar is ideal for its rich, tangy flavor. You can also use a mix of cheddar and other melty cheeses like mozzarella. -
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon works well as a lighter alternative. -
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick. -
Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Yes, pre-cooked bacon can be used for convenience. Just crumble it and add it to the casserole. -
Can I use lactose-free milk?
Yes, you can substitute lactose-free milk if you need to avoid dairy. -
How do I know when it’s done?
The casserole is done when the cheese on top is melted and golden brown, and the edges are bubbly. -
Can I use cream instead of milk?
Yes, using heavy cream or half-and-half will make the sauce richer and creamier. -
Can I use a different flour for the sauce?
Yes, you can use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend as an alternative to all-purpose flour. -
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers are great additions to the casserole. -
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get too soft during baking. -
How can I make the casserole extra creamy?
Add extra cheese or use a blend of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a smoother sauce. -
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable stock or vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly dish. -
Can I add garlic to the sauce?
Yes, you can add minced garlic to the butter before adding the flour for a delicious flavor boost. -
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for different flavors. -
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish and extend the baking time slightly if needed. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. -
Can I make this without an oven?
Yes, you can cook it on the stove top in a large pot or use a slow cooker to make a stovetop version.
20 Best Tips to Make the Perfect Mac and Cheese with Bacon Casserole:
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for the best melting results.
- Cook the pasta al dente to avoid mushy pasta once baked.
- Use full-fat milk or heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Crisp the bacon well for a crunchy texture that complements the creamy cheese.
- Season the sauce generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex and flavorful sauce.
- Make the sauce ahead and store in the fridge for quicker prep.
- Avoid overcooking the sauce so it doesn’t separate when baked.
- Add a dash of mustard powder for a subtle tang that enhances the cheese flavor.
- Layer the cheese sauce with pasta in the casserole dish for even coverage.
- Don’t skip the final baking step—it gives the casserole a beautiful golden crust.
- Top with crispy breadcrumbs for an added crunch.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to firm up and set.
- Add a little hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a flavorful kick.
- Try different pasta shapes like rotini or penne for variation.
- Use a high-quality cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- For a smoky flavor, use smoked cheese or smoked paprika in the sauce.
- Top with extra bacon before serving for added crunch.
- Prepare the casserole a day in advance for easy entertaining.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
This Mac and Cheese with Bacon Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the creamy richness of cheese with the savory, crispy bacon. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in! Enjoy!
