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Crispy Smoked Mac and Cheese Recipe with Bacon Breadcrumbs Easy and Perfect

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A smoky, creamy mac and cheese topped with crispy bacon breadcrumbs that delivers a comforting and indulgent twist on a classic favorite. Ready in under 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups (720 ml) whole milk, warmed
  • 3 cups (340 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup (113 g) smoked gouda cheese, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 1 cup (90 g) bread crumbs, preferably panko
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, crisp 6 slices of bacon in a skillet over medium heat, about 8 minutes. Remove bacon, drain on paper towels, then crumble finely.
  3. In the same skillet, add 1 cup (90 g) panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika. Toast over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Mix in crumbled bacon and set aside.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly.
  5. Slowly whisk in 3 cups (720 ml) warmed whole milk, avoiding lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Remove sauce from heat and stir in 3 cups (340 g) sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup (113 g) smoked gouda until melted and smooth. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  8. Evenly sprinkle the bacon breadcrumb mixture over the mac and cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
  9. Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving to thicken and settle. Enjoy!

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melt. Toast breadcrumbs with bacon fat and spices for best flavor. Rest the dish 5 minutes before serving to thicken. Tent with foil if topping browns too fast. For gluten-free, substitute pasta, flour, and breadcrumbs accordingly. Bacon can be thick-cut for better texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, smoked mac and cheese, bacon breadcrumbs, comfort food, cheesy pasta, crispy topping, smoked gouda, sharp cheddar

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/crispy-smoked-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-bacon-breadcrumbs-easy-and-perfect/