Bacon White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is a creamy, savory twist on a comfort classic. Packed with smoky bacon, fragrant basil pesto, and sharp white Cheddar, this baked dish delivers bold flavor in every bite. A crunchy Parmesan-panko topping seals the deal.
Ingredients for this Bacon White Cheddar Mac and Cheese:
- 1 (16 oz) package elbow macaroni
- ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 6 slices bacon
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz white Cheddar cheese, grated
- ¼ cup panko bread crumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Cook Pasta:
Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside. - Prepare Bacon:
In a skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Let cool, then chop into small pieces. - Make the Sauce:
Discard excess bacon fat, keeping about 1 tablespoon in the pan. Add butter, melt it, then sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. - Add Milk & Cream:
Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens. - Stir in Cheese & Pesto:
Mix in white Cheddar cheese until melted. Add basil pesto and stir until well blended. Season with salt and pepper. - Combine Pasta & Bacon:
Add macaroni and chopped bacon to the sauce. Mix to coat evenly. - Assemble & Bake:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with a mix of panko and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden and bubbling.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Nutrition (Per Serving, Estimated):
- Calories: 610
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 780mg
Whether you’re hosting a dinner or craving comfort food, Bacon White Cheddar Mac and Cheese delivers rich flavor with every bite. Enjoy!
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Source: www.allrecipes.com
