Smoky, Creamy Bacon Macaroni, and Cheese

Gather the ingredients. Place a large skillet over medium heat. When the skillet is hot, add the bacon. The Spruce Cook until the bacon is browned and crisp, turning frequently. The Spruce Remove the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Set aside. The Spruce Cook macaroni in boiling salted water following package directions. The Spruce Drain the macaroni in a colander, rinse with hot water, and set aside. The Spruce Heat oven to 350 F (180 C/Gas 4). Lightly grease a 2 1/2-quart baking dish. The Spruce In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the green onions and garlic powder. Cook, stirring, for about 1 minute. The Spruce Add the flour, to create the roux, and stir until well blended and smooth. Continue cooking, stirring, for 2 minutes. The Spruce Gradually add the milk and cook, stirring, until thickened. Stir in salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. The Spruce Set 1/2 cup of the shredded cheese aside and stir the remaining 1 1/2 cups of cheese into the sauce. Continue cooking and stirring until the cheese has melted. The Spruce Combine the cheese sauce with the drained macaroni and then spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish. The Spruce Crumble the bacon and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the casserole. The Spruce Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the bacon. The Spruce Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Put the breadcrumbs in a small bowl and drizzle the butter over them. Toss the breadcrumbs lightly to coat with the butter. The Spruce Sprinkle the crumbs over the cheese and bacon. The Spruce Bake the macaroni and cheese casserole for 25 to 30 minutes, until lightly browned and bubbly.