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Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe

Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe

Sophia Olivia
If you're a fan of rich, creamy, and cheesy dishes, the Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe is a must-try.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American, BBQ-Style, Southern American
Servings 4
Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

  • A Large Pot (for boiling pasta)
  • A Medium Saucepan (for making cheese sauce)
  • A Whisk or Spoon (for stirring the sauce)
  • A Strainer (for draining the pasta)
  • A Baking Dish (if you want to bake it)
  • A Spatula or Big Spoon (for mixing it all together)

Ingredients
  

  • Elbow Macaroni = 02 cups or any small pasta
  • Sharp Cheddar Cheese = 02 cups shredded
  • Monterey Jack Cheese = 01 cup or smoked cheddar
  • Unsalted Butter = 02 tablespoons
  • Flour = 02 tablespoons all-purpose
  • Milk = 02 cups whole milk works best
  • Garlic Powder = 1/2 teaspoon
  • Onion Powder = 1/2 teaspoon
  • Mustard Powder = 1/2 teaspoon Optional
  • Salt and Black Pepper to taste
  • Liquid Smoke = 1/2 teaspoon for smoky flavor (Optional)
  • Breadcrumbs = 1/4 cup if baking for crispy top (Optional)

Instructions
 

  • Step by Step Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Boil water in a large pot on the stove.
  • Add macaroni and cook for about 8 minutes.
  • Stir now and then so it doesn't stick.
  • Once tender, drain the water fully.
  • Set the cooked pasta aside for later.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

  • Melt the butter in a pan on medium heat.
  • Add flour and stir for about 1 minute.
  • It should form a smooth, thick paste.
  • Slowly pour in the milk while whisking.
  • Keep whisking to stop any lumps.
  • Cook the mix for 3 to 4 minutes.
  • It should start to thicken slightly.
  • Add garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder.
  • Season with a little salt and pepper.
  • Now stir in the shredded cheeses slowly.
  • Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  • Add liquid smoke if you want a smoky flavor.

Step 3: Mix and Bake (Optional)

  • Pour the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce.
  • Stir gently until all pasta is well coated.
  • If baking, pour the mix into a dish.
  • Top with breadcrumbs for a golden crunch.
  • Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 15 minutes.
  • Skip baking if you prefer creamy mac and cheese.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  • Spoon into bowls or onto plates while hot.
  • Serve alone or with your favorite BBQ meat.
  • Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, smoky comfort dish!

Servings and Preparation Times

  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Total Time: About 30-35 minutes
  • Servings: Makes about 4 large servings

Notes

  1. Use Quality Cheese: The key to creamy mac and cheese is high-quality cheese. Cheddar cheese is great, but you can mix in some Monterey Jack for added creaminess.
  2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: The macaroni should be tender but not mushy. Overcooking can lead to a soggy texture.
  3. Season Well: A little bit of garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder can add extra flavor to the cheese sauce.
  4. Add a Crunchy Topping: If you like a little crunch, top the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs and bake it until golden brown.
  5. Make it Smoky: To get that signature BBQ smokiness, add a few drops of liquid smoke or use smoked cheddar cheese.
Keyword Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe