Baked White Mac + Cheese with Bacon

Baked White Mac + Cheese with Bacon is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Imagine gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and pasta all baked to creamy perfection—can you say comfort food? Whether you’re whipping this up for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, who can resist the charming crunch of breadcrumbs on top? In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create your very own Baked White Mac + Cheese with Bacon, from selecting the right ingredients to putting it all together. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

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Why This Recipe Works

Baked White Mac + Cheese with Bacon is a culinary triumph that combines rich flavors, comforting textures, and the satisfaction of homemade goodness. The unique blend of mozzarella and cream cheese creates an irresistibly creamy base that perfectly complements the crunch of breadcrumbs and the savory sweetness of candied bacon. This dish not only pleases the palate but also checks all the boxes for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Why You’ll Love This Baked White Mac + Cheese with Bacon

Imagine a gooey, cheesy pasta dish hitting your table; it’s a heartwarming sight that beckons friends and family. The harmony of textures—from the tender pasta shells to the crispy bacon—combined with the aromatic spices, makes this a must-try recipe for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this Baked White Mac + Cheese with Bacon brings everyone together, making moments even more special.

Ingredients

• 1 (16 oz.) package of medium or large pasta shells, elbow pasta, or Lumache pasta
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons organic all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 ¼ cups almond milk (can substitute with whole milk or preferred plant-based milk)
• 4 oz. organic cream cheese, softened at room temperature
• 3 cups organic mozzarella cheese, shredded or grated
• 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 cups chopped candied bacon

The Cooking Process

Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add your choice of pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta and lightly toss it with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. Let it cool while you prepare the cheese sauce.

Make the Cheese Sauce

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grab an oven-safe deep skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Melt the butter, and once it’s fully melted, whisk in the flour along with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder until you create a paste. Then, slowly pour in the almond milk, whisking constantly to ensure the mixture is lump-free. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Incorporate the Cream Cheese

After your mixture is smooth, add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy. Lower the heat to medium-low, and gradually stir in 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese fully melts creating that luscious, silky sauce.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once your cheese sauce is ready, it’s time to fold it in with the cooled pasta. Make sure all the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Remove the skillet from the heat but reserve a bit of mozzarella cheese for topping later. Spread the pasta mixture evenly in the skillet, making it nice and smooth.

Add Toppings and Bake

Now for the final touch! Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and your breadcrumbs over the pasta, ensuring everything is fully covered. Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown top with bubbly sides. When it’s done, take it out and immediately top it with your chopped candied bacon before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Baked White Mac + Cheese with Bacon alongside a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even some garlic bread. It’s versatile enough to serve as the centerpiece of a meal or as a decadent side dish that everyone will love.

Tips for Success

• Ensure you cook the pasta just until al dente. This way, it won’t become mushy while baking.
• For a flavor boost, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce.
• If you like a crispier top, feel free to broil for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.

Variations

• For a gluten-free option, simply switch to gluten-free pasta and flour.
• If bacon isn’t your thing, try sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a delicious vegetarian twist.
• Experiment with different cheese blends, like cheddar or gouda, for varied flavor profiles that can take the dish to the next level.

Storage Tips

To store any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is simple; just pop it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If you want to freeze it, portion it out into containers, and it can stay good for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Pairing Ideas

This Baked White Mac + Cheese with Bacon pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a refreshing craft beer. Consider enjoying it alongside grilled meats, barbeque chicken, or even a savory mushroom risotto for a full culinary experience.

FAQs

How do I make this dish vegan?
You can easily substitute cream cheese and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives and use a vegan butter substitute.

Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or fusilli.

How do I make the bacon crispy?
Cook your candied bacon in the oven or skillet until it’s crispy and caramelized before mixing it into the dish.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! You can prepare and assemble the dish, then store it in the fridge to bake fresh right before serving.

Is it okay to freeze leftovers?
Definitely! Follow the storage instructions above, as leftovers freeze well and maintain taste and texture upon reheating.

With this Baked White Mac + Cheese with Bacon recipe, you’re not just creating a meal; you’re crafting memories. Offering that perfect balance of creamy and savory goodness, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy every delicious moment!

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