Dinner

Kimchi Bacon Macaroni and Cheese Bake Recipe

ByCleo Brixton December 18, 2025December 18, 2025

Introduction

Kimchi Macaroni and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. Combining the creamy richness of cheese with the tangy, spicy kick of kimchi, this dish brings bold flavors and cozy warmth to your table.

The image shows a white oval baking dish with a red rim, filled with baked macaroni and cheese. The dish is topped with melted golden-yellow cheese, crispy browned bits, and small green herb pieces, adding a touch of color. The macaroni underneath is creamy and light orange from the cheese sauce. The dish sits on a blue cloth on a white marbled surface with a purple napkin and two silver spoons beside it, and green parsley leaves are visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

200 gram Elbow Macaroni
250 gram Kimchi
Bacon, to taste
250 milliliter Milk
15 gram All-Purpose Flour
125 gram Cheddar Cheese
125 gram Parmesan Cheese
Breadcrumbs, to taste
Salt, to taste
Ground Black Pepper, to taste
Chicken Bouillon Powder, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C).
Step 2: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain well.
Step 3: Pan-fry the bacon until crispy, cut into small pieces, and set aside.
Step 4: In the same pan, add a little oil if needed and cook the kimchi for about a minute. Add the bacon back in, then sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mixture and cook for another minute while stirring.
Step 5: Gradually pour in the milk while stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with chicken bouillon powder, salt, and ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Stir in the cheddar and parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Add the drained macaroni and mix well to combine.
Step 7: Transfer the macaroni mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheese and breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy, golden crust.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the topping is melted and golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream to the cheese sauce.
You can substitute bacon with pancetta or omit it for a vegetarian option.
Adjust the amount of kimchi based on your spice tolerance—more kimchi means a tangier, spicier dish.
Use gluten-free flour and pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

A white oval baking dish with a red rim holds a baked macaroni and cheese casserole with two main layers. The bottom layer is made of golden yellow cooked macaroni covered in creamy melted cheese sauce. On top, a bubbly golden brown layer of melted cheese is sprinkled with light brown toasted breadcrumbs and small pieces of crispy bacon bits. Fresh green parsley leaves are scattered over the top for color. The dish sits on a folded dark blue cloth over a white marbled surface, with a purple cloth napkin and two metal serving spoons beside it. Fresh parsley leaves add a touch of green in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other short pasta shapes like penne or shells. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta used.

How spicy is kimchi macaroni and cheese?

The spice level depends on the kimchi you use. Most kimchi has a mild to moderate heat, but you can control the spice by choosing milder kimchi or reducing the amount added.