A comforting and flavorful casserole dish combining creamy macaroni, crispy bacon, and melted cheese.
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Preheating ensures even cooking from the start.
Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then remove and crumble.
Save the bacon fat for added flavor in the next steps.
In the same skillet, sauté the chopped celery and onion in the reserved bacon fat until softened.
Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Stir in the flour, salt, and pepper to make a roux, cooking for 2 minutes.
Cook the roux thoroughly to remove the raw flour taste.
Gradually whisk in the evaporated milk, cooking until the sauce thickens.
Whisk continuously to avoid lumps in the sauce.
Layer the cooked macaroni and sauce in a casserole dish, sprinkling crumbled bacon and cheese between layers.
Ensure even layers for consistent flavor in every bite.
Top with the remaining cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to set.
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Cheesy Bacon Macaroni Bake.
Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.