How do I achieve crispy edges on the mac and cheese?

Spreading the mixture evenly on a rimmed sheet pan and baking at a high temperature helps create golden, crispy edges.

Can I make the bacon crumble ahead of time?

Yes, cook and crumble the bacon earlier, then mix with the panko and melted butter just before assembling.

A combination of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan provides depth, creaminess, and a slightly nutty flavor.

Omit the bacon and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or roasted broccoli mixed with the panko for a flavorful topping.

Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika add layered savory notes and a subtle smoky warmth.

A comforting, creamy mac and cheese baked on a sheet pan for maximum crispy edges, topped with a savory bacon crumble for extra flavor and crunch.

This dish quickly became a family favorite after the first time I served it at a casual weekend dinner.

Pasta: 1 pound (450 g) elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce: 4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter, 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour, 3 cups (720 ml) whole milk, 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 2 cups (200 g) sharp cheddar cheese shredded, 1 cup (100 g) Gruyère cheese shredded, 1/2 cup (50 g) Parmesan cheese grated
Bacon Crumble: 6 slices (150 g) thick-cut bacon, 1/2 cup (50 g) panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter melted, 2 tablespoons (10 g) fresh parsley chopped (optional)

Preheat Oven:: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a rimmed sheet pan (approx. 18x13 inches / 45x33 cm).
Cook Pasta:: Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water 2 minutes less than package instructions (it will finish cooking in the oven). Drain and set aside.
Make Roux:: In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbling but not browned.
Add Dairy:: Gradually whisk in the milk and cream. Simmer, stirring frequently, until thickened (about 5 minutes).
Season Sauce:: Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add Cheese:: Remove from heat and add cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well to coat evenly.
Arrange in Pan:: Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly on the prepared sheet pan.
Prepare Bacon Crumble:: Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels, crumble, and set aside.
Mix Crumble:: In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Stir in crumbled bacon and parsley.
Add Topping:: Sprinkle the bacon crumble mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
Bake:: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 22 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Rest:: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Our family loves gathering around the table to dig into this mac and cheese especially on cozy weekend nights.

Each serving offers 720 calories, with a satisfying balance of fat 38 g, carbohydrates 60 g, and protein 31 g.

This recipe contains milk/dairy, wheat/gluten, and pork. Double-check ingredient labels if you have allergies.

Serve with a simple green salad and pair with a lightly oaked Chardonnay or pale ale to balance the richness.

This recipe is a perfect crowd-pleaser that combines comfort and crispy texture in every bite.

→ How do I achieve crispy edges on the mac and cheese?: Spreading the mixture evenly on a rimmed sheet pan and baking at a high temperature helps create golden, crispy edges.
→ Can I make the bacon crumble ahead of time?: Yes, cook and crumble the bacon earlier, then mix with the panko and melted butter just before assembling.
→ What cheeses are ideal for a rich sauce?: A combination of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan provides depth, creaminess, and a slightly nutty flavor.
→ Is there a way to make this with a vegetarian crumble?: Omit the bacon and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or roasted broccoli mixed with the panko for a flavorful topping.
→ How do seasonings enhance the flavor?: Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika add layered savory notes and a subtle smoky warmth.