Loaded Mac and Cheese is pure comfort food magic—cheesy, creamy, a little smoky, and loaded up with everything you’d hope to find in your dream bowl of mac. This classic dish gets an upgrade with crispy bacon, tangy sour cream, and a shower of fresh green onions, making every bite rich and flavorful. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this recipe promises layers of texture and taste, all tied together by the gooey goodness of sharp cheddar. Once you try it, it’ll become a staple at your table!

Loaded Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how a shortlist of everyday ingredients can come together to make something truly special. Each component in this Loaded Mac and Cheese recipe plays a crucial role—so don’t skimp, and you’ll taste every delicious note in the finished dish.

Macaroni: Classic elbow macaroni holds onto the creamy cheese sauce perfectly; you’ll want about 6 ounces uncooked for just the right balance of pasta to sauce.
Unsalted Butter: This is the foundation of the rich roux and sets the stage for a velvety sauce.
All-Purpose Flour: Flour thickens the sauce, creating that luscious, cling-to-the-noodle consistency everyone loves.
Whole Milk: Whole milk ensures the sauce is luxurious and creamy, giving the dish body and depth.
Salt: Just half a teaspoon evenly seasons the pasta and brings out the cheese’s flavor.
Paprika: A touch of paprika adds color and subtle warmth—it makes the cheese look extra inviting.
Black Pepper: A pinch is all you need for that gentle, peppery finish.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheddar for that bold, tangy cheese flavor—it melts so much better than pre-shredded!
Sour Cream: This brings a creamy tang and keeps the sauce silky.
Cooked and Crumbled Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that’s simply irresistible mixed throughout and sprinkled on top.
Green Onions: Their bright, oniony bite balances the richness and adds a pop of color.

How to Make Loaded Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Begin by boiling your macaroni in salted water according to the package instructions, aiming for that perfect al dente texture. Keeping the pasta just a little firm allows it to absorb the creamy cheese sauce without getting mushy later on. Once done, drain and set aside—the start of any great Loaded Mac and Cheese!

Step 2: Make the Roux and Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then whisk in the flour to form a paste (this is your roux). Let it cook for about a minute to eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens slightly, which should only take a couple of minutes. This is the foundation of a silky-smooth cheese sauce that sets this dish apart.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Melt the Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in salt, paprika, and black pepper to the thickened sauce. Now the fun part: add in all that freshly shredded cheddar! Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce takes on a beautiful golden hue. The result is a glossy, rich, cheesy base that smells absolutely incredible.

Step 4: Stir in Sour Cream, Macaroni, and Bacon

Take the sauce off the heat and gently fold in the sour cream, which adds a creamy tanginess and ensures an ultra-silky texture. Next, blend in the cooked macaroni and most of the crumbled bacon (reserve a little if you want to sprinkle it on top later). Stir everything together until every noodle is coated and there are bits of bacon in every bite—now your Loaded Mac and Cheese is really coming together!

Step 5: Add Green Onions and Serve

Grab your green onions, give them a quick rinse, and dice them up. Plate a generous helping of mac and cheese, then top with green onions and any reserved bacon. For extra decadence, add a dollop of sour cream or a smattering of extra shredded cheddar. Every serving looks as inviting as it tastes!

How to Serve Loaded Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

The right garnish makes your Loaded Mac and Cheese feel special. Sprinkle on reserved bacon bits, extra cheese shreds for extra melt appeal, and a handful of diced green onions for color and kick. If you love a tangy finish, a dollop of sour cream on top is pure luxury!

Side Dishes

This dish is a total showstopper on its own, but it also plays well with sides. Think a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or even buttery garlic bread. Each one adds a fresh, crunchy contrast, making every bite of mac and cheese even more crave-worthy.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to think outside the bowl! Loaded Mac and Cheese can be served in mini cast iron skillets for a rustic touch, baked in ramekins for a party, or even scooped into hollowed-out bread bowls for a truly over-the-top experience. Your guests will be talking about your creativity long after dinner is done.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (lucky you!), simply spoon the mac and cheese into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, and the flavors get even richer as they meld together.

Freezing

Want to make Loaded Mac and Cheese ahead for later? Let it cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe dish, tightly sealed. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen up the sauce, or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. The creamy texture bounces right back, especially with a fresh sprinkle of cheese or more green onions on top.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Loaded Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, feel free to use shells, cavatappi, or even penne for an equally delicious twist.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar gives this recipe its signature bold flavor, but you can try mixing in Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or mozzarella for extra melt and personality.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Just leave out the bacon or swap it with sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for a satisfying vegetarian option that still delivers big flavor.

How can I make it spicy?

To add some heat, stir in diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or use pepper jack cheese. Finish with a dash of hot sauce for punchy flavor.

Can I bake Loaded Mac and Cheese?

Yes, you can! After mixing everything together, transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese and bacon, and bake at 375°F until bubbly and golden—it’s an extra-cozy way to serve.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Loaded Mac and Cheese, you’ll understand why it’s a go-to comfort dish in so many kitchens. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser—creamy, crispy, and loaded with flavor in every bite. Gather your ingredients and give it a whirl; your next cozy dinner just got a whole lot tastier!