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Creamy Mac and Cheese with Crispy Bacon Breadcrumb Topping

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A quick and easy creamy mac and cheese recipe topped with a crispy, smoky bacon breadcrumb mixture for the perfect comfort food with texture contrast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside without rinsing.
  2. While pasta cooks, crisp bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until browned and crunchy (6-8 minutes). Drain on paper towels and crumble.
  3. Add panko breadcrumbs to the bacon fat in the skillet and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Stir in garlic powder, then transfer bacon and breadcrumb mixture to a bowl.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
  5. Gradually whisk in whole milk, cooking and stirring until sauce thickens (5-7 minutes).
  6. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Add a splash of milk if sauce is too thick.
  7. Pour drained macaroni into cheese sauce and stir gently to coat. Transfer mixture to an 8×8-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
  8. Dot remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter over macaroni. Sprinkle bacon breadcrumb topping evenly on top.
  9. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until topping is golden and cheese sauce bubbles.
  10. Let rest for 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

For extra crispy topping, broil for 1-2 minutes after baking but watch closely to avoid burning. Use freshly shredded cheese for best meltability. Do not overcook pasta; al dente is best. You can assemble ahead and refrigerate before baking, adding extra baking time if cold. For vegetarian version, omit bacon and add smoked paprika to breadcrumbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, bacon breadcrumb topping, comfort food, easy dinner, cheesy pasta, crispy topping

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/creamy-mac-and-cheese-with-crispy-bacon-breadcrumb-topping-recipe-easy-and-delicious/