Monster Mac and Cheese: Fun and Creepy Halloween Dinner
Monster Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent dish that combines tender pasta with savory chicken ham, crumbled turkey bacon, and a golden breadcrumb topping. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or whenever you crave a comforting, flavorful meal.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked chicken ham, chopped
- 1 cup cooked turkey bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually add milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Reduce heat to low, then stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until fully melted. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and mix until coated. Fold in chicken ham and turkey bacon evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter for the topping.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and cheese is bubbling.
- Let cool 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a quicker version, skip baking and serve immediately after combining pasta with cheese sauce.
Customize with vegetables or extra cheese to suit your taste.
Reheats well in the oven or microwave.