Homemade Bacon Mac-n-Cheese (Stovetop Edition)

Everyone loves mac-n-cheese. That creamy, cheesy texture is enough to take anyone back to their childhood days at home or at grandma's house. This homemade Bacon Mac-n-Cheese combines all the flavors you loved as a child, plus lots of crispy, salty bacon. Mix up this simple pasta recipe for lunch, supper, or any occasion. Enjoy!
bacon mac n cheese
Ingredients
  • 2 ounces bacon, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 2 1/2 cups water
  • 4 cups milk
  • 16 ounces uncooked short pasta such as cavatappi or elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
  1. Place the bacon in a large pan over medium high heat. Cook until crispy, about 4-5 minutes.
  2. Remove the bacon from the pan and drain on paper towels. Leave 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan; discard the rest of the fat.
  3. Add the flour, then whisk until combined, about 30 seconds.
  4. Pour in the water and whisk until smooth and just thickened. Add the milk and whisk until combined.
  5. Stir in the pasta, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika and pepper, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
  6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is done.
  7. Turn the heat to low, then stir in the cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth.
  8. If you need to thin the sauce, add more milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
  9. Stir half of the bacon into the mac-n-cheese mixture. Sprinkle the remaining bacon over the top and serve immediately. Enjoy!
bacon mac n cheese
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