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Loaded Baked Mac & Cheese with Bacon

This Loaded Baked Mac & Cheese with Bacon is pure comfort! Creamy, cheesy pasta baked to golden perfection with crispy turkey bacon and crunchy breadcrumbs.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 cups Milk whole milk recommended
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
  • 1/2 cup Cooked and Crumbled Turkey Bacon reserve some for topping
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter for breadcrumb topping

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

  • In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, stirring until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency, about 4-5 minutes.
  • Reduce heat to low and stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  • Season with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper.

Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

  • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat. Fold in 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled turkey bacon, reserving some for topping.

Assemble and Top

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mac and cheese into an oven-safe baking dish.
  • Mix 1/2 cup breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon melted butter and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over mac and cheese, then top with reserved turkey bacon crumbles.

Bake to Perfection

  • Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until topping is golden and crispy. Optionally broil 1-2 minutes for extra browning—watch closely to prevent burning.

Garnish and Serve

  • Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Oven-safe baking dish (about 8x8 inches)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing spoon
  • Cheese Grater

Notes

  • The roux made from butter and flour is key for a thick, creamy cheese sauce.
  • Using a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan provides balanced flavor and meltiness.
  • Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative to pork bacon but still crisps nicely.
  • Letting the baked mac and cheese rest after baking helps the sauce set for easier serving.
  • This dish freezes well; assemble and freeze before baking, then thaw and bake when ready.