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Loaded Bacon Mac and Cheese Bake Recipe Easy and Irresistible

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A creamy, cheesy mac and cheese bake loaded with crispy bacon and topped with golden panko breadcrumbs. Perfect for any occasion and guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 8 ounces thick-cut bacon
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and crumble once cool.
  3. In the same pot used for the pasta, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Remove the béchamel from heat and stir in the cheddar, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  6. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.
  7. Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle crumbled bacon evenly over the top.
  8. Toss the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle over the bacon layer.
  9. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
  10. Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for better meltability. Slightly undercook the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking. Taste and adjust the seasoning of the béchamel sauce before combining it with the pasta.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, bacon, comfort food, casserole, easy dinner, cheesy pasta, family dinner

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/loaded-bacon-mac-and-cheese-bake-recipe-easy-and-irresistible/