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Baked White Mac and Cheese with Bacon Recipe

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3.9 from 3 reviews

This Baked White Mac and Cheese with Bacon is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic elevated with a crispy breadcrumb topping and savory candied bacon. Made with a blend of mozzarella and cream cheese, seasoned milk-based sauce, and your favorite pasta shape, this dish is baked to perfection until golden and bubbly. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it balances rich flavors with crispy textures for a satisfying meal.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 (16 oz.) package of your favorite pasta shape (shells, elbow pasta, Lumache)

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons organic all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1 1/4 cups almond milk (or whole milk/plant-based milk)
  • 4 ounces organic cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups organic mozzarella cheese, shredded or grated
  • 1 cup organic mozzarella cheese, shredded or grated (for topping)

Topping and Garnish

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
  • 2 cups chopped candied bacon

Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil with a pinch of salt. Add your choice of pasta—shells, elbow pasta, or Lumache—and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and lightly toss it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside to cool.
  2. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the mac and cheese later.
  3. Make the Roux: In a deep, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder. Whisk continuously until the mixture forms a smooth, paste-like consistency, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Add Milk and Cream Cheese: Slowly pour in the almond milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue whisking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in the softened cream cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Melt Mozzarella: Reduce heat to medium-low, then gradually add the 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or spatula until all the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooled pasta into the cheese sauce. Stir well until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy cheese mixture. Remove the skillet from heat.
  7. Prepare Topping: Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and the breadcrumbs (or crushed Ritz crackers) over the top of the mac and cheese.
  8. Bake: Place the skillet on the center rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the topping is golden brown, the sides are bubbly, and the center has set.
  9. Add Bacon and Serve: Remove the baked mac and cheese from the oven. Immediately scatter the chopped candied bacon evenly on top for added crunch and flavor. Serve hot.
  10. Enjoy: Pair this delightful dish with your favorite sides and main courses. Bon Appetit!

Notes

  • Use olive oil to toss the cooked pasta to prevent sticking before mixing with cheese sauce.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute dairy cheeses with vegan cheese alternatives and use plant-based milk.
  • Candied bacon adds a sweet and savory crunch—feel free to adjust the quantity or omit if preferred.
  • Breadcrumbs can be replaced with crushed crackers for extra flavor and texture.
  • Ensure the skillet is oven-safe before baking; otherwise, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://recipesvibe.com/baked-white-mac-and-cheese-with-bacon-recipe/