Skillet Mac and Cheese

5 from 1 vote

Made with a blend of velvety cheddar, creamy mozzarella, and tangy Parmesan, every bite is a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Course Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword Cheese, Mac and Cheese, Macaroni and Cheese

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Servings People

Calories 400kcal

Macaroni pasta: Choose your favorite macaroni pasta shape, such as elbow macaroni or cavatappi, to soak up the cheesy goodness.
Cheese blend: A combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates a well-rounded and creamy flavor profile.
Bacon: The secret ingredient that adds a smoky and savory twist to the dish.
Breadcrumbs: A golden, buttery breadcrumb crust adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
Butter: Used to sauté the bacon and coat the breadcrumbs for a rich, flavorful finish.
Milk: To create a creamy sauce that binds all the ingredients together.
Flour: Used as a thickening agent for the sauce.
Spices and seasonings: Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and any other preferred herbs and spices to enhance the flavors.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a cast-iron skillet.
Cook the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet.
In the same skillet, melt the butter in the bacon fat over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Reduce the heat to low and add the cheese blend, stirring until melted and smooth.
Crumble the cooked bacon and add it to the cheese sauce, mixing well.
Add the cooked macaroni pasta to the skillet and stir until the pasta is evenly coated in the cheese sauce.
In a separate bowl, melt some butter and mix it with the breadcrumbs until well combined.
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese in the skillet.
Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Making the Perfect Skillet Mac and Cheese

Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the pasta until it is al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven. Overcooked pasta can result in a mushy texture.
Use quality cheeses: Opt for high-quality cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses for the best flavor and melting properties.
Mix up the cheese blend: Feel free to experiment with different ratios of cheeses to find your preferred combination of flavors.
Let it rest: Allow the mac and cheese to rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together and for easier serving.
Get creative with toppings: Besides breadcrumbs, consider adding toppings like chopped herbs, crushed potato chips, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.