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Skillet Baked Mac & Cheese (Extra Crispy Top)

This Skillet Baked Mac & Cheese is SO GOOD! Creamy, cheesy pasta topped with a golden, extra crispy breadcrumb crust and savory turkey bacon bits.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Baked, Cheesy, Comfort Food, Easy, Weeknight
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk whole milk works best for richness
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese sharp cheddar
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for the golden, crispy topping
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil helps crisp up the breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled turkey bacon adds smoky, savory notes and texture

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

  • Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside. It’s important not to overcook because the pasta will continue to cook in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

  • In your oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to create a roux. Keep whisking for about 1-2 minutes until it’s golden and bubbly, which cooks out the raw flour taste.
  • Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Cheese and Seasonings

  • Lower the heat and add 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth.
  • Season with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir to combine all the flavors.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

  • Add the drained macaroni and 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled turkey bacon to the skillet. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the cheese sauce.

Step 5: Prepare the Crispy Topping

  • In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss to evenly coat the breadcrumbs with oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese in the skillet.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and extra crispy.
  • Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. The result is a creamy, cheesy pasta with a satisfyingly crunchy top that makes every bite a delight.

Equipment

  • 10-inch oven-safe skillet
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing spoon
  • Grater

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze the baked mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
  • For an extra crispy topping, coat breadcrumbs with olive oil and consider broiling for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.