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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