Mac & cheese with bacon is one of the most comforting and delicious meals you can make. I added a handful of green peas to sneak in some veggies so parents can feel good about serving it to kids.
Why you will love this mac and cheese with bacon
This isn’t just classic mac and cheese—it’s mac and cheese with crispy bacon and a little green to balance the richness. The sauce is creamy, the cheese is melty, and the bacon adds a savory crunch. It’s an easy, satisfying dish that works for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want comforting food with a little twist.
With simple pantry ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe delivers big flavor without fuss.
Why mac and cheese is so easy to make
Mac and cheese is a classic for a reason: it needs just a few ingredients and basic techniques. Boil the pasta, make a simple roux-based cheese sauce, toss everything together, and dinner is ready. The recipe is forgiving, so it’s perfect for beginners and busy cooks alike.
If you already have pasta, butter, flour, milk and cheese on hand, you’re only a few steps away from a comforting meal. Adding bacon and peas makes it more substantial and kid-friendly.
Ingredients needed for creamy macaroni and cheese
All-purpose flour and butter — the base for a smooth, creamy sauce.
Macaroni or short pasta — classic elbow macaroni works well, but any short pasta will do.
Salt and pepper — to season the sauce and pasta.
Warm milk — helps the sauce become silky and pourable.
Mixed cheeses — a combination like cheddar, mozzarella, Romano and Parmesan creates great flavor and meltability.
Paprika — optional, for a touch of color and mild flavor.
Bacon — crisped and chopped, it adds savory depth and texture.
Onion — sautéed with the bacon for extra flavor.
Green peas — frozen peas are convenient and add a bright, fresh note.
How to make creamy macaroni and cheese
- Cook the macaroni in a large pot according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove excess fat, then add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté until translucent.
- Add the butter to the skillet and melt over medium heat. Stir in the flour, salt and pepper until smooth to form a roux. Gradually whisk in warm milk and continue stirring until the sauce begins to thicken, about 1–2 minutes after it boils.
- Stir in the shredded cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat in the cheese sauce.
- Fold in the cooked bacon and 2 cups of frozen peas. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes so the peas heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning; sprinkle with paprika if desired.
How to store and reheat macaroni and cheese
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–5 days.
To reheat in the microwave, place one serving on a microwave-safe plate and warm on high for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For stovetop reheating, place the mac and cheese in a saucepan over medium heat, add about 1/2 cup milk to loosen the sauce, and stir frequently until heated through to avoid scorching.
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Mac & Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
- 5 cups macaroni or other pasta
- 1 dash pepper
- 4 cups warm milk
- 4 1/2 cups mixed cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, Romano, Parmesan), shredded
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 1/2 cup bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cups frozen green peas
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni in a large pot according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the bacon in a large saucepan until crisp. Remove excess fat, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- Add the butter and melt over medium heat. Stir in flour, salt and pepper until smooth. Gradually whisk in warm milk and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Cook 1–2 minutes more, until thickened.
- Stir in the mixed cheeses until melted and smooth. Add the drained pasta and stir to coat in the sauce.
- Fold in the bacon and peas and simmer 2–3 minutes to heat through. Sprinkle with paprika if desired and serve warm.