Buckle up, folks, because we’re about to take your Thanksgiving feast on the ultimate flavor adventure! Get ready to experience the cheesiest, bacony-est, most unbelievable mac and cheese bake that will have your tastebuds begging for more. This Thanksgiving Cheesy Bacon Mac & Cheese Bake with Crispy Topping is an epic, revolutionary dish that’s about to become the talk of the table.
Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Cheesy Bacon Mac & Cheese Bake with Crispy Topping
This recipe is an absolute game-changer in the world of mac and cheese. We’re talking about a sensational fusion of creamy, gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and a crunchy, irresistible topping that will leave you craving bite after bite. It’s the ultimate comfort food made legendary, perfect for feeding a crowd at your Thanksgiving feast. The explosive flavors and incredible texture will have everyone begging for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). Trust me, this dish is about to become your new holiday go-to that will have your family and friends raving.
Ingredients
Get ready for the most epic, mouth-watering ingredient list ever! We’re talking a massive explosion of cheesy, bacony goodness. You’ll need elbow macaroni, thick-cut bacon, a blend of cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, heavy cream, butter, all-purpose flour, garlic, breadcrumbs, and a few other pantry staples. Prepare to create a flavor paradise in your kitchen!
- 16 oz – elbow macaroni
- 8 slices – thick-cut bacon
- 2 cups – shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup – shredded Gruyère cheese
- 2 cups – heavy cream
Ingredient Substitutions
- Cheese Blend: Feel free to get creative with the cheese blend – a mix of sharp cheddar, fontina, and parmesan would also be incredible.
- Bacon: You can swap the bacon for turkey or even plant-based “bacon” if you want to keep things lighter.
How to Make Thanksgiving Cheesy Bacon Mac & Cheese Bake with Crispy Topping
Get ready, because we’re about to turn your kitchen into a flavor paradise!
Step 1: Prep Work
Start by cooking the bacon until it’s crispy and delicious. Drain the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. Next, cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, then slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheeses until they’re melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Add the cooked macaroni and chopped bacon to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish and top with the breadcrumbs. Bake until the top is golden and crispy, about 25-30 minutes.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Let the Thanksgiving Cheesy Bacon Mac & Cheese Bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with some extra chopped bacon and freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Get ready for the ultimate flavor explosion!
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Spice It Up: If you really want to take this dish to the next level, try adding in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Extra Heartiness: You could also stir in some shredded rotisserie chicken or sautéed mushrooms for extra heartiness.
- Crunchy Topping: And don’t be afraid to get creative with the topping – crushed Ritz crackers or even a layer of crispy fried onions would be insanely good.
- Endless Possibilities: The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to making this Thanksgiving Cheesy Bacon Mac & Cheese Bake your own.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: This Thanksgiving Cheesy Bacon Mac & Cheese Bake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for feeding a hungry horde at your holiday feast.
Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to indulge in the incredible flavors all over again.
Make-Ahead: You can assemble the mac and cheese bake up to 2 days in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and add the crispy topping.
Nutrition Information
Indulging in this Thanksgiving Cheesy Bacon Mac & Cheese Bake is an absolute must, but let’s be real – it’s not exactly a health food. Each serving packs a massive, thrilling punch of calories, fat, and carbs, but hey, it’s the holidays! Treat yourself to this epic, sensational dish and worry about the calories later. Your taste buds will thank you.
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 660 kcal
- Protein: 26 g
- Carbs: 48 g
- Fat: 42 g
- Sodium: 1010 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the mac and cheese bake up to 2 days in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and add the crispy topping.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends. A mix of cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella would also be incredible.
How can I make this dish lighter?
To cut down on the richness, you can use low-fat or skim milk instead of heavy cream, and swap in turkey bacon or plant-based “bacon” for the regular stuff.
Can I freeze this mac and cheese bake?
Yes, you can! Assemble the dish, then cover and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.
What can I serve with this mac and cheese bake?
This epic dish is the ultimate holiday showstopper, but you can round out the meal with a fresh green salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or crusty garlic bread for the ultimate Thanksgiving feast.
Try These Next
- Thanksgiving Leftover Mac And Cheese Bake With Crispy Topping
- Fiery Buffalo Chicken Mac And Cheese Bake With Crispy Topping
- Cozy Cheddar Potato Bake With Crispy Bacon Topping
Thanksgiving Cheesy Bacon Mac & Cheese Bake with Crispy Topping
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Mac & Cheese Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Thanksgiving Cheesy Bacon Mac & Cheese Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and a crunchy topping. Perfect for your holiday feast!
Ingredients
1 lb elbow macaroni
4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
4 cups milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1.
2. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. 2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
4. 3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper to create a roux.
5. 4. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture is thick and bubbly.
6. 5. Remove from heat and mix in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
7. 6. Stir in the cooked macaroni and crumbled bacon until well combined.
8. 7. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
9. 8. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
10. 9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
11. 10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
12.
Notes
– For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
– This dish can be made ahead of time and refrigerated. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Thanksgiving, Mac and Cheese, Comfort Food