Bacon Mac and Cheese – Easy and Cheesy

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When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a good mac and cheese with bacon. This recipe is simple to make with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. The bacon adds a wonderful flavor that takes regular mac and cheese to the next level.

It works great for weeknight dinners or weekend family meals – easy enough to make when busy but impressive enough for company. Everyone at the table will enjoy the classic cheesy pasta with bits of savory bacon throughout. It’s hearty, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser.

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Homemade Mac and Cheese with Bacon

I’ve been making this Bacon Mac and Cheese recipe for years, and it’s become our family’s go-to comfort meal. What I love about it is how simple it is—just everyday ingredients come together to make something really satisfying. The bacon adds just the right amount of smokiness, and my kids always ask for seconds.

I usually prepare this on those nights when everyone’s tired and hungry, and we need something reliable that I know will hit the spot. It’s nothing fancy, just good, honest food that makes the whole house smell amazing and brings everyone to the table with a smile. Trust me, once you try mac and cheese with bacon mixed in, you’ll never want to return to the regular version.

What You Need

Elbow Macaroni
Bacon, Chopped
Unsalted Butter
All-Purpose Flour
Whole Milk, Warmed
Heavy Cream
Shredded Cheese Blend (Recommended: Sharp Cheddar, Gruyère, And Monterey Jack)
Grated Parmesan Cheese, Divided
Mustard Powder
Garlic Powder
Cayenne Pepper (Optional)
Salt And Black Pepper To Taste
Panko Breadcrumbs
Melted Butter (For Topping)
Chopped Chives Or Green Onions (For Garnish)

How to Make Grilled Mac and Cheese with Bacon

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Cook macaroni in salted water until al dente (about 2 minutes less than package directions). Drain and set aside.

In a large oven-safe skillet or dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.

Add butter to the bacon fat and melt over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant, creating a roux.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

Gradually whisk in warmed milk and cream, stirring constantly until smooth. Cook sauce for 5-7 minutes until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in 3 cups of the shredded cheese blend, 1/2 cup Parmesan, mustard powder, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using). Stir until melted and smooth, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine and Top

Fold in the cooked macaroni and 3/4 of the crispy bacon. Mix well to combine.

Mix panko breadcrumbs in a small bowl with the remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan, shredded cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.

Step 4: Cook

Grilling Method:

Prepare a grill for indirect medium-high heat (about 375-400°F/190-200°C). In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan, remaining shredded cheese, and 2 tablespoons melted butter.

Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. Place the skillet on the indirect heat side of the grill.

Close the grill lid and cook for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy. Remove from grill, sprinkle with remaining bacon bits and chopped chives. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Oven Method:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). For the breadcrumb topping, follow the same instructions as for the grilling method.

Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbling. For extra browning, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end (observe!).

Garnish with remaining bacon and chives before serving.

How To Store Leftovers and Reheat

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry. For smaller portions, microwave on medium power with a damp paper towel covering the dish.

Add a bit extra cheese before warming to refresh the crispy crust for best reheating results.

What To Serve With Mac and Cheese

• Smoked Brisket: The rich, smoky flavor complements the creamy mac and cheese perfectly
• Pulled Pork: A classic BBQ pairing that’s always a crowd-pleaser
• Smoked Chicken: The lighter protein balances the richness of the mac and cheese
• Coleslaw: The crunch and acidity balance the rich, cheesy pasta
• Cornbread: Southern comfort food that pairs wonderfully with mac and cheese
• Jalapeño Poppers: Add some spice to complement the cheesy goodness
• Garlic Bread: For the ultimate carb-loaded comfort meal

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Smoke On!

Charlie

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