Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta until al dente, drain and set aside. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In large skillet over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy. Remove with slotted spoon, reserve 2 tablespoons bacon fat.
- Add ground beef to skillet with bacon fat. Cook until browned, add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, cook 1 minute.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to form roux.
- Slowly pour in milk while whisking continuously. Cook, whisking frequently, until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat, stir in cream cheese until smooth. Add cheddar, American, and mozzarella, stirring until melted.
- In baking dish, combine pasta, beef mixture, most bacon, and cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine evenly.
- Mix panko breadcrumbs, remaining cheddar, and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over mac and cheese.
- Bake 25-30 minutes until bubbly around edges and golden brown on top. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
- Let cool 5-10 minutes to set slightly. Garnish with reserved bacon bits and fresh chives.
- Serve immediately while hot and creamy. Enjoy this ultimate comfort food creation!
Notes
Can be assembled 24 hours ahead and refrigerated. Freezes well for up to 3 months. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting results. Add extra bacon fat if needed when cooking beef.
