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Creamy Bacon Mac and Cheese Pasta

This Creamy Bacon Mac and Cheese Pasta is the ultimate comfort food! Velvety cheese sauce, smoky turkey bacon, and tender elbow macaroni make it utterly irresistible.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 slices turkey bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk whole milk works best
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs optional, for topping

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, about 7-8 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Crisp 4 slices of turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels, crumble, and set aside.
  • In a medium saucepan, melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for about 2 minutes to cook out raw flour taste.
  • Slowly pour in 2 cups milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook and stir until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  • Remove sauce from heat and stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup shredded mozzarella until melted and smooth.
  • Add cooked macaroni and crumbled turkey bacon to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat all pasta.
  • Optional: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour mac and cheese into a greased baking dish, sprinkle 1/2 cup breadcrumbs evenly on top, and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
  • Spoon the creamy bacon mac and cheese into bowls and serve hot.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or whisk
  • Baking Dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cheese Grater

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and creaminess.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente texture is key for baking or mixing.
  • Add Parmesan cheese on top before baking for extra cheesy flavor.
  • Substitute turkey bacon with grilled chicken or mushrooms for variations.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk.