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