The BEST Bacon Mac and Cheese

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If there’s one dish that can bring my family together, it’s bacon mac and cheese.

There’s something so comforting about that creamy, cheesy goodness paired with the smoky crunch of bacon.

It’s not just a meal—it’s a family FAV.

One of my favourite things about this dish is that it’s fun to make.

My kids love helping with the small tasks—mixing the breadcrumbs, sprinkling cheese, or stealing a crispy piece of bacon when they think I’m not looking.

Cooking together turns into a little adventure, with laughter and the occasional flour spill along the way.

Whenever we can’t think of something for dinner this is a classic go-to for us.

We always have the ingredients on hand so its always a quick and yummy option for us!

Why We Love It

As a parent, I love this recipe because it’s easy to make, and let’s face it—cheese and bacon are an unbeatable combo.

For my kids, it’s the cheesy noodles and crispy bacon bits that make them light up with excitement. For me? It’s about creating memories around the table.

This dish is pure comfort, and it’s a meal that turns an ordinary day into something special.

The Recipe: Simple, Cheesy Perfection

Here’s how we make our family’s favourite bacon mac and cheese:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cavatappi pasta
• 12 ounces bacon (about 9-12 slices)
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (trust me, this makes it extra special)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, but a fun kick for grown-ups!)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

How We Make It:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the cavatappi until al dente. The kids love watching the fun curly noodles cook! Drain and set it aside.
2. Sizzle the Bacon: Fry the bacon until it’s crispy and irresistible. My kids always try to sneak a piece—honestly, who can blame them? Crumble it into bite-sized pieces once cooled.
3. Whip Up the Cheese Sauce: In a large pot, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to create a roux. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. Then comes the best part—stir in the cheddar and Gruyere cheeses until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Add the Flavor: Mix in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The kitchen starts to smell amazing, and my boys always hover nearby, asking, “Is it ready yet?”
5. Combine the Good Stuff: Stir the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon into the cheese sauce, making sure every noodle is coated in creamy, cheesy goodness.
6. Bake It to Perfection: Pour everything into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish. Pop it in the oven at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes, until it’s golden brown and bubbling.
7. Finish with Love: Garnish with fresh parsley for a little color and freshness, then let it cool slightly before serving.

Why It’s a Family Favorite

This bacon mac and cheese is more than just food—it’s a tradition in the making.

My kids always ask for it on their birthdays, and it’s the dish I make when someone’s had a rough day.

It’s creamy, cheesy, smoky, and crunchy—all the things comfort food should be.

What I love most is how this meal brings us together. We sit at the table, sharing laughs and stories, with everyone going back for seconds (and sometimes thirds).

And the leftovers?

They rarely make it past breakfast the next day.

If you’re looking for a recipe that feels like home, this bacon mac and cheese is it.

It’s easy to make, full of flavour, and guaranteed to make everyone around the table smile. From my family to yours—enjoy every cheesy, bacon-filled bite!