Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese | Plated Magic

Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese

Short Description

Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, featuring creamy, cheesy sauce, crispy bacon, and a touch of smoky paprika. This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and creamy texture – a velvety cheese sauce coats every bite.
  • Smoky, crispy bacon – adds a deep, savory flavor.
  • Easy to make in one pot – minimal cleanup required.
  • Quick and satisfying – ready in just 30 minutes.
  • Customizable – adjust cheeses, add toppings, or bake for a crispy crust.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Mac & Cheese:

  • Cavatappi or elbow macaroni
  • Bacon, chopped
  • Unsalted butter
  • All-purpose flour
  • Whole milk
  • Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • Smoked paprika
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the Pasta:

  1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Bacon:

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy.
  2. Use a slotted spoon to transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Leave some bacon drippings in the skillet.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
  2. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until smooth and slightly thickened (3-5 minutes).
  3. Reduce heat to low, then add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.

Assemble the Mac & Cheese:

  1. Stir in the cooked macaroni, mixing well to coat with the sauce.
  2. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Fold in most of the crispy bacon, reserving some for garnish.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and reserved bacon.

Optional: Baked Crispy Topping

  1. Transfer mac & cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until golden brown.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4-6
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Omit bacon and add 1 tsp liquid smoke for a smoky taste.
  • Extra Creamy: Add ½ cup heavy cream for a richer sauce.
  • Spicy Kick: Stir in chopped jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and flour.
  • Bacon Upgrade: Use thick-cut, maple, or peppered bacon for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
  • Reheating:
    • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
    • Stovetop: Reheat on low with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
    • Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, covered with foil.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Try Gruyère, Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for different flavors.

How do I keep my mac & cheese from drying out?

Use whole milk, don’t overbake, and reheat with a splash of milk.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the mac & cheese, refrigerate, and bake before serving.

What’s the best bacon for this recipe?

Use smoked, thick-cut, or applewood bacon for the best flavor.

Can I make this without flour?

Yes, substitute with cornstarch (1 tsp mixed with 2 tbsp milk).

Is this mac & cheese spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly shredded cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce.

How do I make the topping extra crispy?

Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter before baking.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers.

How do I make it a full meal?

Serve with grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or a side salad.

Conclusion

Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese is an irresistible, creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight meal or a side dish for gatherings, this recipe delivers bold, smoky flavors with a rich, cheesy sauce. Try it today and savor every bite!

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Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese

Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese


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  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Smoky Bacon Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food! Made with crispy bacon, creamy cheese sauce, and smoky paprika, this dish delivers a rich, indulgent flavor in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in, this mac & cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Mac & Cheese:

  • 8 oz cavatappi or elbow macaroni
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Topping:

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for a crispy baked version)

Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:

  • Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2️⃣ Cook the Bacon:

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy.
  • Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate.
  • Leave bacon drippings in the pan.

3️⃣ Make the Cheese Sauce:

  • In the same pan, add butter and let it melt.
  • Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  • Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  • Reduce heat to low and mix in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until smooth and creamy.

4️⃣ Assemble the Dish:

  • Stir in cooked pasta, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Fold in crispy bacon, reserving some for garnish.

5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!

  • Garnish with fresh parsley and reserved bacon.
  • Optional: For a crispy finish, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and broil for 3-5 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

  • Swap whole milk for heavy cream for extra creaminess.
  • Use liquid smoke for a vegetarian version instead of bacon.
  • Add gruyère or gouda cheese for a richer flavor
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2à minutes
  • Category: Lunch & Dinner, Comfort Food
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
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