If you are craving the ultimate comfort food that elevates everyone’s favorite creamy pasta, look no further than this Loaded Bacon Mac and Cheese Bake Recipe. It combines perfectly cooked macaroni, a rich, velvety cheese sauce bursting with sharp cheddar flavor, and crispy bacon that adds an irresistible smoky crunch. This dish bakes to golden perfection with a crunchy breadcrumb topping, making every bite a delightful harmony of textures and flavors. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make time and time again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Loaded Bacon Mac and Cheese Bake Recipe lies in its straightforward yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from creamy dairy to crunchy bacon and golden breadcrumbs, ensuring perfect taste, texture, and color in every bite.
- 1 lb. dry elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds the sauce beautifully for every spoonful.
- 10 slices bacon: Adds smoky, crispy goodness; you can also use bacon bits or pancetta.
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter (divided): Essential for richness and creating the roux that thickens the sauce.
- ¼ cup minced onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a tasty aromatic boost that balances the cheese.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce to creamy perfection.
- 3¼ cups whole milk (room temperature): Creates a smooth, luscious base for the sauce.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess; Greek yogurt works too.
- 4-5 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided): The star of the dish, melted for dreamy cheesiness.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: For that irresistible crunchy topping; Ritz cracker crumbs or Italian breadcrumbs are fine alternatives.
- ½ tsp garlic salt: Seasoning punch that elevates the breadcrumb topping.
- Chopped green onion and/or parsley (optional): Fresh finishing touch for color and flavor.
How to Make Loaded Bacon Mac and Cheese Bake Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni to al dente according to the package directions. This ensures your pasta is tender with a bit of bite so it doesn’t get mushy once baked. Drain it well and set aside because the pasta is the perfect base to soak up all that cheesy, savory sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
While the pasta cooks, fry the bacon slices in a large cast-iron or oven-safe skillet until they turn crispy and golden. This step is key for that smoky crunch that makes this mac and cheese unforgettable. After frying, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess fat, then wipe out the skillet to make room for the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Next, melt 5 tablespoons of the butter in your clean skillet over medium heat. Add the minced onion along with a pinch of salt, then sauté until softened and fragrant, about two minutes. Stir in the garlic for another minute, allowing those savory aromas to awaken your senses.
Step 4: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and stir it into the butter-onion-garlic mixture until it forms a smooth, pasty texture. This roux is essential as it thickens the cheese sauce, giving it that luscious body you crave in a good mac and cheese.
Step 5: Create the Cheese Sauce
Now, slowly pour in the whole milk, whisking continuously over low to medium heat. This gradual incorporation prevents lumps and lets the sauce thicken beautifully. Once thickened, whisk in the sour cream to add a creamy tang that balances the richness perfectly.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in 3 cups of the sharp cheddar cheese until it’s melted smoothly into a velvety sauce. This step is the magic moment where your mac and cheese starts taking shape.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Bacon
Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheesy sauce, ensuring every noodle is luxuriously coated. Crumble half of the crispy bacon and stir it into this mixture to distribute that savory crunch within the creamy pasta.
Step 8: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping
In a small separate pan, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and garlic salt, stirring until the crumbs turn golden and toasted. This golden topping will form that addictive crispy crust everyone loves.
Step 9: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining bacon pieces and cheese over the macaroni in the skillet. Then, evenly spread the toasted breadcrumbs on top to create a crunchy, flavorful cap. Bake for about 15 minutes until the edges are bubbly and golden. For an extra crispy finish, broil for a few minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning. Let your Loaded Bacon Mac and Cheese Bake Recipe rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set beautifully.
Step 10: Garnish and Enjoy
Just before serving, scatter chopped green onions or parsley over the top for a fresh burst of color and hint of freshness that perfectly balances the rich and smoky flavors.
How to Serve Loaded Bacon Mac and Cheese Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped green onion or parsley is the perfect fresh finish that brightens up this rich, indulgent casserole. It adds a lovely pop of green and a mild oniony note that complements the creamy cheese and smoky bacon.
Side Dishes
Since this mac and cheese bake is hearty on its own, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to add balance and freshness to the meal. Light, simple sides keep the focus on this indulgent star dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the mac and cheese in individual oven-safe ramekins for a charming and appealing presentation at gatherings. You can also sprinkle some extra bacon bits and a little cheese on top before reheating for a fresh, gooey crust each time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more overnight, making for delicious next-day enjoyment.
Freezing
This Loaded Bacon Mac and Cheese Bake Recipe freezes well before baking. Assemble in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to preserve creaminess and avoid drying out. For a quick fix, microwave covered in short intervals, stirring in between to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, any short pasta shape like shells, cavatappi, or penne works wonderfully because they hold onto the cheesy sauce beautifully.
What if I don’t have sharp cheddar cheese?
You can substitute with other flavorful cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or a mix for a unique twist. Just ensure it’s a good melting cheese for the best creamy texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Loaded Bacon Mac and Cheese Bake Recipe?
Definitely! Simply omit the bacon and add crispy fried onions or smoked paprika for that smoky kick without the meat. You can also try using plant-based bacon alternatives.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, swap regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs while still enjoying this delicious bake.
How do I get the breadcrumb topping extra crispy?
To achieve maximum crunch, make sure to toast the breadcrumbs in butter until golden before sprinkling on top, and consider broiling the bake for a couple of minutes at the end to crisp the crust further.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Bacon Mac and Cheese Bake Recipe is the ultimate expression of comfort food, packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and irresistible bacon crunch. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself to something truly special. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience just how comforting and delicious homemade mac and cheese can be!
Print
Loaded Bacon Mac and Cheese Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Loaded Mac and Cheese recipe combines creamy, cheesy pasta with crispy bacon and a buttery, crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfectly baked to bubbly perfection and topped with fresh herbs, it’s a comforting crowd-pleaser ideal for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 1 lb. dry elbow macaroni (1 box, or any short shape pasta)
- 10 slices bacon (bacon bits or pancetta can be substituted)
Sauce
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter, divided (1 stick)
- ¼ cup minced onion (any type)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3¼ cups whole milk, room temperature
- ½ cup sour cream, room temperature (plain or Greek yogurt also work)
- 4–5 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (hand grated if possible)
Topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (crumbled Ritz crackers or Italian breadcrumbs are options)
- ½ tsp garlic salt
- Chopped green onion and/or parsley (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the macaroni to al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Fry Bacon: In a large cast-iron or oven-safe skillet, fry the bacon slices until crispy. Remove bacon and drain on paper towels. Wipe out the skillet for reuse.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for the baking step.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Melt 5 tbsp of butter in the cleaned skillet over medium heat. Add minced onion and a pinch of salt; sauté for a couple of minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
- Make Roux: Stir in the flour to the butter, onion, and garlic mixture until it forms a pasty roux.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the whole milk over low to medium heat, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Incorporate Sour Cream: Whisk in the sour cream to add creaminess and tang to the sauce.
- Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, stirring to fully coat the noodles with the cheese sauce.
- Add Bacon: Crumble half of the cooked bacon and stir it into the macaroni and cheese mixture.
- Prepare Topping: In a small saucepan or skillet, melt the remaining 3 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add panko breadcrumbs and garlic salt; stir and cook until the crumbs are toasted and golden brown.
- Assemble Casserole: Top the macaroni and cheese with the remaining bacon crumbles, the leftover shredded cheddar cheese, and the toasted breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until bubbly and crispy around the edges.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: For a crunchy crust, broil the casserole for a few additional minutes but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Rest: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to set before serving.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions and/or parsley on top as an optional fresh garnish before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature milk and sour cream to prevent lumps in the sauce.
- If you prefer, substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier sauce.
- For a different flavor profile, experiment with smoked cheddar or add a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce.
- The breadcrumb topping can be swapped for crushed crackers or fried onions for variety.
- Bacon bits or pancetta can replace bacon if desired.
- Allowing the casserole to rest after baking ensures cleaner slices and better texture.
