Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon Crumble

Introduction

Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon Crumble is the ultimate comfort food elevated to indulgence. This creamy, cheesy pasta dish combines tender elbow macaroni, rich cheddar cheese sauce, and a crispy, smoky bacon topping that adds a perfect crunch and depth of flavor.

Whether for a family dinner, potluck, or holiday gathering, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of creamy, gooey cheese and savory bacon creates a flavor-packed experience that hits all the right notes.

Why I Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of textures: Creamy macaroni contrasts beautifully with crispy bacon crumble.
• Rich, cheesy flavor: A blend of cheeses makes it indulgent yet deeply satisfying.
• Easy to make in one dish: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
• Family favorite: Appeals to kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Easily adapted with different cheeses or additional toppings.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

This version of macaroni and cheese is a must-try because it transforms a classic comfort food into a flavor-packed, indulgent masterpiece. Here’s why it stands out:

1. Perfect Flavor Combination: The creamy, cheesy pasta pairs beautifully with the smoky, savory crunch of bacon, creating a harmony of flavors that keeps every bite exciting.
2. Texture Contrast: Unlike traditional mac and cheese, the bacon crumble topping adds a satisfying crispiness that contrasts with the smooth, velvety cheese sauce.
3. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: This dish is universally loved—kids, adults, and guests will all be reaching for seconds, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, and special occasions.
4. Customizable and Versatile: You can add extra cheeses, spices, or vegetables, or even switch up the bacon with pancetta or smoked ham, making it easy to tailor to your taste.

Time, Servings & Nutrition

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 40–45 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories (approx): 550 kcal per serving

Course: Main Course / Side Dish
Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

Pasta:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• Salt, for pasta water

Cheese Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese

Topping:

• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Directions

1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook Bacon: Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside. Reserve a small amount of bacon fat for extra flavor if desired.
3. Make Cheese Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
   • Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook 1–2 minutes.
   • Slowly whisk in milk, then add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Stir continuously until sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Gruyère until melted and smooth.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
5. Prepare Topping: Mix crumbled bacon, panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl.
6. Assemble and Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer macaroni and cheese to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle bacon crumble evenly on top. Bake for 15–20 minutes until topping is golden and crispy.
7. Serve: Remove from oven, let cool for a few minutes, and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Boil salted water; cook pasta until al dente and drain.
2. Cook bacon until crispy; crumble and set aside.
3. Make roux with butter and flour, then whisk in milk and seasonings.
4. Add cheeses to sauce and stir until smooth.
5. Combine pasta with cheese sauce.
6. Mix topping ingredients: bacon, panko, butter, Parmesan.
7. Transfer pasta to baking dish, top with bacon crumble.
8. Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes. Cool slightly and serve.

How to Serve

• Serve as a main course or side dish with a green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Top with extra fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color and freshness.
• Pair with garlic bread or grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor and Gruyère for smooth meltiness.
• Don’t overcook pasta; it will finish cooking in the oven.
• Partially bake uncovered for a crispier topping.
• Use freshly cooked bacon for the best texture and flavor.
• Stir a small portion of crumbled bacon into the cheese sauce for extra smokiness.

Variations

• Extra Cheesy: Add cream cheese or fontina for a richer sauce.
• Spicy Bacon Mac: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce.
• Vegetable Boost: Mix in sautéed spinach, broccoli, or peas.
• Smoked Cheese: Substitute cheddar with smoked gouda for a smoky flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze baked macaroni in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until heated through. Microwave portions for 2–3 minutes.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for pasta
• Skillet for bacon
• Medium saucepan for cheese sauce
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Whisk for sauce
• Mixing bowls

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble in baking dish and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q2: Can I use pre-cooked bacon or bacon bits?
Yes, but fresh-cooked bacon provides the best texture and flavor.

Q3: Can I use other cheeses?
Yes, Monterey Jack, fontina, or gouda work well.

Q4: Can I skip the breadcrumb topping?
Yes, the dish will still be delicious but slightly less crunchy on top.

Q5: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, omit the bacon and add extra vegetables or smoked paprika for flavor.

Conclusion

Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon Crumble is the ultimate comfort dish, combining creamy, cheesy pasta with savory, crispy bacon for an unforgettable meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, it’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and indulgently delicious. With its cheesy, crunchy, and smoky layers, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite for years to come.