Easy Weeknight Bacon Mac ‘n Cheese

The aroma of bacon and melted cheese has always been a siren call in my kitchen. Even as a child, I remember standing on a stool next to my grandmother, watching her expertly crumble crispy bacon into a bubbling pot of cheesy pasta. It wasn’t just a meal; it was an experience—a warm, comforting hug in a bowl that chased away any blues. To this day, the smell alone can transport me back to her cozy kitchen, filled with laughter and the promise of deliciousness. Now, I’m excited to share my take on this classic comfort food, perfectly suited for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 1 casserole
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 3 cups uncooked penne pasta
• 1 (18 ounce) can Progresso™ Recipe Starters™ creamy three cheese cooking sauce
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ teaspoon chopped garlic or 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
• 4 ½ ounces water
• 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, chopped
• 2 ounces American cheese, loaf shredded
• 2 ½ ounces cooked bacon pieces
• ½ cup diced red bell pepper, if desired
• Progresso™ Italian style panko crispy bread crumbs, if desired

Equipment Needed

• 2-quart casserole dish
• Cooking spray
• Large pot
• 3-quart saucepan

Instructions

1. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will give it time to reach the proper temperature while you prepare the other ingredients. Lightly spray a 2-quart casserole dish with cooking spray. This will prevent the pasta from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

2. Now, cook the penne pasta according to the package directions. Make sure to drain the pasta thoroughly after cooking. Don’t overcook the pasta; aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

3. While the pasta is cooking, grab a 3-quart saucepan. Pour in the can of Progresso™ Recipe Starters™ creamy three cheese cooking sauce, milk, and garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

4. Once the sauce is boiling, immediately remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the chopped sharp cheddar cheese and shredded American cheese until completely melted and smooth. The residual heat from the sauce will melt the cheese beautifully, creating a rich and creamy base for your mac ‘n cheese. If the cheese doesn’t melt completely, you can return the saucepan to low heat, stirring constantly, until it’s smooth.

5. Add the cooked and drained penne pasta, bacon pieces, and diced red bell pepper (if using) to the cheese sauce. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the cheesy goodness. The bacon should be distributed evenly to give every bite that salty, savory flavor.

6. Spoon the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Spread it evenly to ensure consistent baking.

7. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the casserole dish with foil.

8. If desired, sprinkle the top of the casserole with Progresso™ Italian style panko crispy bread crumbs during the last 5 minutes of baking for added texture and flavor. This will add a delightful crunch to the creamy mac ‘n cheese.

9. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set slightly and prevent burning your mouth.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For an even richer flavor, use a blend of different cheeses. Gruyere, Fontina, or even a smoked Gouda would be delicious additions.
• If you don’t have bacon pieces on hand, you can cook your own bacon and crumble it. Make sure to drain off the excess grease before adding it to the mac ‘n cheese.
• To prevent the pasta from sticking together while it’s cooling, toss it with a little bit of olive oil after draining.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
• Prepare the pasta and cheese sauce ahead of time, then combine and bake just before serving. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Easy Weeknight Bacon Mac ‘n Cheese hot, straight from the oven. A simple side salad or steamed vegetables make a great accompaniment. For a more elegant presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few extra bacon pieces.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through. You can also reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, covering it with foil to prevent the top from drying out. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the pasta and cheese sauce may change.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	349.9 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	122 g	35%
Total Fat	13.6 g	20%
Saturated Fat	8 g	40%
Cholesterol	38.6 mg	12%
Sodium	280.3 mg	11%
Total Carbohydrate	44.5 g	14%
Dietary Fiber	6 g	24%
Sugars	0.7 g	2%
Protein	13.6 g	27%

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and add more vegetables, such as broccoli florets, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
• Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
• Smoked: Use smoked cheddar cheese for a smoky flavor.
• Different Pasta: Feel free to substitute the penne pasta with other shapes like elbow macaroni, rotini, or shells.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains cellulose which can prevent it from melting as smoothly. For best results, shred your own cheese.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time and bake it later?
A: Yes, you can assemble the mac ‘n cheese in the casserole dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have the Progresso™ creamy three cheese cooking sauce?
A: You can create your own cheese sauce using a roux (butter and flour), milk, and a blend of your favorite cheeses.

Q: How do I prevent the pasta from drying out in the oven?
A: Make sure the pasta is well-coated in the cheese sauce before baking. If you notice it starting to dry out, cover the casserole dish with foil for the remaining baking time.

Q: Can I add a crispy topping other than bread crumbs?
A: Absolutely! Crushed crackers, crumbled potato chips, or even fried onions would make a delicious crispy topping.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Weeknight Bacon Mac ‘n Cheese is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create comforting memories in your own kitchen. Gather your ingredients, crank up the oven, and prepare to be transported to a place of cheesy, bacony bliss. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, or toppings to make it your own. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite beverage for a complete and satisfying meal. Happy cooking!