Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsZingerman's RoadhousePimento Cheese & Bacon Macaroni Recipe

Pimento Cheese & Bacon Macaroni Recipe

Time1h
Serves6

Mancini pasta caramelized with béchamel, Nueske's applewood-smoked bacon, and our housemade Southern pimento cheese.

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Ingredients

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Ingredients

Method

Directions

  1. 1

    Cook the Pasta

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the Mancini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. 2

    Cook the Bacon

    In a large skillet, cook the Nueske's applewood-smoked bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon and set aside.

  3. 3

    Make the Béchamel Sauce

    In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and bring to a simmer. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.

  4. 4

    Add Cheeses and Pimentos

    Reduce heat to low and stir in the sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Stir in the diced pimentos.

  5. 5

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the cooked Mancini pasta and crumbled bacon to the béchamel cheese sauce. Stir until pasta is well coated.

  6. 6

    Bake the Dish

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle bread crumbs evenly over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.

  7. 7

    Garnish and Serve

    Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

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