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Crispy Loaded Bacon Mac and Cheese Casserole Easy Garlic Herb Crust Recipe

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A comforting and crowd-pleasing mac and cheese casserole loaded with crispy bacon and topped with a flavorful garlic herb crust. Perfect for family gatherings and cozy nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (8 oz / 225 g) elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided (softened, plus more for crust)
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons mixed fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook for 6-7 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, fry bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Drain on paper towels and chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly but not browned.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, cooking for 4-5 minutes until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Add mustard powder (if using), salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cheese sauce, and chopped bacon.
  8. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon softened butter, and fresh herbs until evenly coated.
  9. Pour mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle garlic herb breadcrumb mixture on top.
  10. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake casserole for 25-30 minutes until top is golden brown and cheese is bubbling.
  11. Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If crust browns too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with cornstarch. For lower fat, swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt. Toast breadcrumbs lightly for extra crispiness. Let casserole rest before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, bacon, casserole, garlic herb crust, comfort food, cheesy, crispy, easy recipe

Find it online: https://breezybake.com/crispy-loaded-bacon-mac-and-cheese-casserole-easy-garlic-herb-crust-recipe/