Whenever summer rolls around, my grill gets a workout. We host countless BBQs, and I’ve noticed one thing for sure: nothing ties a gathering together better than comfort food. I’m talking about BBQs that go hand-in-hand with smoky flavors—you know, like tender pulled pork stacked high and fresh corn on the cob sizzling beside me.
But let’s not forget the ultimate side that steals the show: BBQ Mac and Cheese! Yep, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
There’s something irresistible about macaroni and cheese, isn’t there? It evokes memories of childhood, lazy evenings, and family gatherings. And when that familiar creamy cheesiness meets the tangy goodness of barbecue?
You have a plate of pure bliss. BBQ Mac and Cheese combines both flavor profiles into something wonderful. With every forkful, you get gooey cheese, pasta, and a hint of barbecue that transports you during those sunny days by the grill.
You Might Like These Recipes!
What is BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe?
This dish is essentially a creamy macaroni and cheese, elevated by the addition of pulled pork and BBQ sauce. It’s a fusion of classic comfort and smoky Southern flair. The key is the cheesy sauce that envelops the pasta, complemented by the barbecue depth that pulls everything together. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but also makes a stellar side for your grilled favorites.
Why You’ll Love this BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe?
What’s not to love about BBQ Mac and Cheese? First off, it’s incredibly easy to whip together, making it perfect for busy nights or gatherings. Second, it’s incredibly adaptable. Use whatever pasta you have on hand, and you can easily switch up the cheeses and toppings. Lastly, it’s a showstopper with its creamy, cheesy goodness mingled with the smoky barbecue flavor—your guests will be asking for seconds (or thirds!).
The Ingredients You Will Need to Make This Dish
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful BBQ Mac and Cheese. This assortment of ingredients ensures maximum flavor while keeping things straightforward.
– 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter, cut into pieces
– 1 qt. whole milk
– 1 pound of pasta (penne, cavatappi, or rotini work wonders)
– 6 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup plus 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
– 1 (8-oz.) package of shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
– 1 (8-oz.) package of shredded Gouda cheese
– 1 teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce (I use Tabasco).
– 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
– 1 pound of pulled pork BBQ (no sauce)
– 1 1/2 cups of crumbled cornbread
– 2 teaspoons of extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup of chopped green onions
– 1/2 cup of your favorite bottled barbecue sauce
– Optional: 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for an extra kick.
– Optional: 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for an added depth of flavor.
Ingredients From : southernliving.com
How to Make BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe?
Let’s roll up those sleeves and get cooking! Making BBQ Mac and Cheese doesn’t require advanced techniques, but a few steps ensure you create something utterly delicious. We’ll go step by step to make sure you don’t miss a thing.
Step-by-step Directions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First, let’s get the oven ready for action. Preheat your broiler and adjust the rack so it sits about 8 to 9 inches from the heat. This will give your mac and cheese that lovely golden crust later.
Step 2: Boil the Water
In a large Dutch oven over high heat, combine 4 quarts of water and 1/4 cup of kosher salt. Bring this to a rolling boil. It’s crucial to season the water for the pasta, as this will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
Step 3: Microwave the Milk
While the water comes to a boil, grab a microwave-safe glass measuring cup and pour in the milk. Cover it with plastic wrap and pop it in the microwave for about 3 minutes on high. We want it hot but not boiling.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a 12-inch cast-iron skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. As it sizzles, lower your heat to medium-low and whisk in the flour. Keep whisking for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the hot milk; we want this mixture to come together smoothly. Now, increase the heat to medium-high and bring the sauce to a gentle boil, whisking often for about 6 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
By now, your water should be boiling. Toss in the pasta and cook for about 8 minutes. You want it slightly undercooked to ensure it absorbs the sauce later.
Step 6: Add the Cheeses
While the pasta is cooking, continue to whisk your sauce. When the 6 minutes are up, remove the skillet from heat and whisk in those lovely cheeses, the hot sauce, 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, and black pepper.
Step 7: Stir the Cornbread Mixture
In a bowl, mix the crumbled cornbread with the olive oil. This will create a nice topping later.
Step 8: Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and fold it into the cheesy sauce. Now comes the fun part—stir in your pulled pork.
Step 9: Assemble and Broil
Pour the pasta mixture into a baking dish or keep it in the cast-iron skillet for serving. Sprinkle the cornbread mixture generously over the top and add a handful of green onions.
Step 10: Broil to Perfection
Slide your dish under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes until the cornbread is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 11: Drizzle and Serve
Right before serving, drizzle with bottled barbecue sauce. And just like that, your BBQ Mac and Cheese is ready to impress at your next gathering!
Notes
– Pasta: You can use gluten-free pasta if you need it to be gluten-free.
– Cheese Variety: Feel free to mix other types of cheese. Pepper Jack adds a nice kick.
– Pulled Pork: For quicker prep, you can use store-bought pulled pork.
– Cornbread: You can make cornbread ahead of time and use leftovers.
– Serving It Up: This dish serves beautifully alongside grilled meats and fresh salads.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which I hope you do!), allow the BBQ Mac and Cheese to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of milk to bring back that creamy texture if needed.
Serving Suggestions
1. Pair with Grilled Meats: BBQ chicken, ribs, or burgers go perfectly with this dish.
2. Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness nicely.
3. Fruit Salad: Light, vibrant fruit salads add a refreshing contrast.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is summer on a plate!
5. Pickles: Serve with tangy pickles on the side for that delightful crunch.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe?
1. Cheese Substitutes: Use Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or Fontina for creaminess.
2. Pulled Pork: Substitute with shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re in a hurry.
3. Pasta: Try using whole-wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
4. Cornbread: You can use breadcrumbs instead of cornbread for a different topping texture.
5. Sauce Variations: Experiment with homemade barbecue sauce for a personal touch.
BBQ Mac And Cheese Recipe
Equipment
- Large Dutch oven
- Cast-iron skillet
- Microwave-safe measuring cup
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking dish
Ingredients
- – 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter cut into pieces
- – 1 qt. whole milk
- – 1 pound of pasta penne, cavatappi, or rotini work wonders
- – 6 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- – 1/4 cup plus 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt divided
- – 1 8-oz. package of shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- – 1 8-oz. package of shredded Gouda cheese
- – 1 teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce I use Tabasco.
- – 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- – 1 pound of pulled pork BBQ no sauce
- – 1 1/2 cups of crumbled cornbread
- – 2 teaspoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- – 1/2 cup of chopped green onions
- – 1/2 cup of your favorite bottled barbecue sauce
– Optional: 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for an extra kick.
– Optional: 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for an added depth of flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- First, let’s get the oven ready for action. Preheat your broiler and adjust the rack so it sits about 8 to 9 inches from the heat. This will give your mac and cheese that lovely golden crust later.
Step 2: Boil the Water
- In a large Dutch oven over high heat, combine 4 quarts of water and 1/4 cup of kosher salt. Bring this to a rolling boil. It’s crucial to season the water for the pasta, as this will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
Step 3: Microwave the Milk
- While the water comes to a boil, grab a microwave-safe glass measuring cup and pour in the milk. Cover it with plastic wrap and pop it in the microwave for about 3 minutes on high. We want it hot but not boiling.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a 12-inch cast-iron skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. As it sizzles, lower your heat to medium-low and whisk in the flour. Keep whisking for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the hot milk; we want this mixture to come together smoothly. Now, increase the heat to medium-high and bring the sauce to a gentle boil, whisking often for about 6 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
- By now, your water should be boiling. Toss in the pasta and cook for about 8 minutes. You want it slightly undercooked to ensure it absorbs the sauce later.
Step 6: Add the Cheeses
- While the pasta is cooking, continue to whisk your sauce. When the 6 minutes are up, remove the skillet from heat and whisk in those lovely cheeses, the hot sauce, 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, and black pepper.
Step 7: Stir the Cornbread Mixture
- In a bowl, mix the crumbled cornbread with the olive oil. This will create a nice topping later.
Step 8: Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and fold it into the cheesy sauce. Now comes the fun part—stir in your pulled pork.
Step 9: Assemble and Broil
- Pour the pasta mixture into a baking dish or keep it in the cast-iron skillet for serving. Sprinkle the cornbread mixture generously over the top and add a handful of green onions.
Step 10: Broil to Perfection
- Slide your dish under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes until the cornbread is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 11: Drizzle and Serve
- Right before serving, drizzle with bottled barbecue sauce. And just like that, your BBQ Mac and Cheese is ready to impress at your next gathering!
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance, and just broil it right before serving.
2. Is this dish very spicy?
The heat level is pretty mild, but you can always adjust the hot sauce to fit your tastes.
3. What type of cheese is best?
Extra-sharp cheddar and Gouda are fantastic for flavor, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
4. Can I freeze BBQ Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
5. Is this a good recipe for kids?
Definitely! Kids adore the gooey cheese and pasta, and you can skip the hot sauce or reduce it for a milder dish.
Conclusion
So, if you’re on the lookout for a filling, smoky dish that celebrates those summer grill vibes, BBQ Mac and Cheese is where it’s at. It combines all the comforting qualities of traditional macaroni and cheese, amplified with tasty pulled pork and a hint of BBQ sauce.
Whether it’s served as a main or a side, this dish promises to keep your family and friends coming back for more. Get your ingredients together, fire up that oven, and prepare to be the star of your next gathering with this simple yet incredible comfort food creation!
