Creamy Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Topping

Published: August 27, 2025

by Amelia

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Mac and Cheese is easy to whip up even on a busy weeknight
Its rich flavor profile combines cheesy goodness with crispy bacon and veggies
The presentation is vibrant, making it an eye-catching dish at any dinner table
It’s versatile enough for a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday feast

I remember one chilly evening when I surprised my folks with this dish; their smiles lit up the room, and we ended up giggling over cheesy jokes all night long.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: Elbow macaroni works best for its fun shape and ability to hold onto creamy sauce.
Brussels Sprouts: Look for bright green ones; they should feel firm and have no yellow leaves. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.
Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for extra crunch; it adds a delightful smoky flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Thick and Chewy Cookies recipe.
Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor; it melts beautifully into the sauce.
Milk: Whole milk gives the sauce creaminess but feel free to use your favorite dairy alternative.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness while adding richness. sage butter brioche rolls.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken the cheese sauce; just make sure to cook it until bubbly.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a crunchy topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.
Garlic Powder: A little sprinkle of garlic powder adds depth without overpowering other flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Creamy Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Topping

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over medium-high heat. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, add diced bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes, then stir in shredded Brussels sprouts until softened slightly.

Create the Cheese Sauce: In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until combined and bubbly; gradually add milk while stirring continuously until thickened.

Add Cheese Galore!: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Combine Everything Together : Fold cooked pasta into cheese sauce along with sautéed Brussels sprouts and bacon. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Topping Time!: Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, sprinkle generously over the top for an irresistible crunch.

Bake Your Masterpiece : Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown on top. Let cool slightly before serving—you’ll want everyone to enjoy it without burning their mouths!

Now you have a delicious bowl of Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs ready to impress your friends and family! Enjoy every cheesy bite! bacon salad wraps.

You Must Know

Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs is not just comfort food; it’s a delightful twist on a classic
This dish combines creamy, cheesy pasta with the crunch of bacon and the earthiness of Brussels sprouts, creating a flavor explosion
Perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta until al dente. While it cooks, sauté the Brussels sprouts and prepare your cheese sauce. fried goat cheese Finally, mix everything together before topping it with crispy bacon breadcrumbs for that perfect finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out Brussels sprouts for broccoli or spinach if you prefer. You can also experiment with different cheeses, like gouda or pepper jack, to give your mac and cheese a unique flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm in the microwave or oven to keep it creamy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the best texture, avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be slightly firm
When making breadcrumbs, feel free to use day-old bread for added crunch
Don’t skip seasoning your vegetables; it elevates their natural flavors immensely!

Cooking this dish reminds me of my college days when my friends and I would have mac and cheese night. We’d experiment with toppings and laugh as we tried to outdo each other’s creations!