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Bacon Mac & Cheese

Recipe by Cheesy Does It Cooking on YouTubeAdded 4 November 2026.

15 minutes to prep, 30 to cook. A decadent, comfort‑food classic that blends creamy cheddar and gruyere with smoky maple bacon. The crunchy panko‑parmesan topping adds a satisfying crunch, while a hint of cayenne gives it a gentle kick. Perfect for a quick, indulgent dinner that feels restaurant‑worthy.

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Method

  1. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add salt and olive oil, and cook the macaroni shells until al dente (8‑10 minutes); drain.

  2. Cut the bacon into small pieces and cook in the same pot until crispy; remove the bacon and set aside, reserving the rendered fat.

  3. In the pot, melt butter, add flour, and stir to form a roux.

  4. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until the sauce thickens.

  5. Stir in shredded cheddar and gruyere, then season with salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika.

  6. Combine the cooked shells and bacon with the cheese sauce; transfer to an oven‑safe bowl.

  7. Top with panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, and rosemary leaves.

  8. Broil on high for about 5 minutes until the top is golden and crispy; serve hot.

Tips while you cook

Reuse the pot for bacon
After draining the pasta, cook the bacon in the same pot.
Use rendered bacon fat for the roux
Reserve the bacon fat and melt butter in it before adding flour for a richer sauce.
Watch the broil time
Broil on high for about 5 minutes until the topping is golden, then remove to prevent burning.
Add rosemary after topping
Sprinkle rosemary leaves over the breadcrumb‑parmesan layer before broiling for aroma.

Notes from ReelsMeals, based on this recipe's ingredients, times and method. They are not the creator's instructions.

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The recipe comes from Cheesy Does It Cooking’s YouTube video. ReelsMeals wrote it down from the caption and the voiceover. Check the original if something looks off, and for anything about allergens.

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