Bacon Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 12 ounces bacon
chopped
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 4 cups milk
- 16 ounces uncooked short pasta
such as cavatappi or elbow macaroni
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Directions
- 1
Place the bacon in a large pan over medium high heat. Cook until crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan and drain on paper towels.
- 2
Leave 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan; discard the rest of the fat.
- 3
Add the flour, then whisk until combined, about 30 seconds.
- 4
Pour in the water and whisk until smooth and just thickened.
- 5
Add the milk and whisk until combined.
- 6
Stir in the pasta, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika and pepper, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
- 7
Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is done.
- 8
Turn the heat to low, then stir in the cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth. If you need to thin the sauce, add more milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- 9
Stir in half of the bacon.
- 10
Sprinkle the remaining bacon over the top, along with the parsley. Serve immediately.
Bacon Mac and Cheese
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 55 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make? This one-pot Bacon Mac and Cheese delivers on all fronts, bringing you a creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying dinner with minimal fuss.
Why This Recipe Works
What truly sets this recipe apart is its ingenious one-pot approach. By cooking the pasta directly in the milk and water, you infuse every single noodle with rich, savory flavor from the start, all while creating a wonderfully creamy sauce that needs no extra effort. Plus, the generous amount of bacon ensures a smoky, salty punch in every bite, transforming classic mac and cheese into something truly special.
What to Expect
Prepare for a truly indulgent experience. You'll find tender, perfectly cooked short pasta enveloped in a luxuriously smooth and velvety cheese sauce, brightened by hints of onion, garlic, and a touch of smoked paprika. Each mouthful is punctuated by savory, crispy pieces of bacon, offering a delightful textural contrast and a robust, smoky depth that makes this dish utterly addictive. This is pure comfort food, ideal for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Customization & Variations
This Bacon Mac and Cheese is wonderfully versatile. While shredded cheddar cheese is classic, feel free to experiment with a blend of cheddar and Gruyere or Monterey Jack for added complexity. If you prefer a different pasta shape, any short pasta like ditalini or medium shells would work beautifully in place of cavatappi or elbow macaroni. For an extra layer of flavor, consider stirring in a handful of finely chopped sautéed bell peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
Serving & Context
This rich and satisfying dish is perfect for an effortless family dinner that feels special, or as a comforting meal on a chilly evening. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad to balance the richness, or with some crusty bread for soaking up every last drop of that incredible sauce.