BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe: Smoky, Cheesy & Crowd-Pleasing Comfort

BBQ Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food fusion, combining creamy, cheesy pasta with the smoky richness of barbecue. Whether you’re using pulled pork, brisket, or smoked chicken, the bold BBQ flavor layered into traditional mac and cheese adds an irresistible twist. This dish works well as a hearty side or a satisfying main course, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day. The balance of tender meat, tangy sauce, and creamy cheese makes every bite unforgettable. If you’re a fan of bold flavors and easy-to-make meals, this BBQ Mac and Cheese will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

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Ingredients Of BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe

Elbow macaroni
Whole milk
Salt
Black pepper
Prepared BBQ sauce
Cooked pulled pork or smoked meat of choice

Butter
All-purpose flour
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Olive oil or melted butter (for topping)

Why You Will Love This BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe

This BBQ Mac and Cheese recipe blends smoky BBQ and creamy cheese into a rich, soul-satisfying dish. It’s easy to customize with your favorite barbecue meat and perfect for feeding a crowd. The creamy base and crispy optional topping create a satisfying texture contrast. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly and ideal for meal prep or gatherings.

Preparation Process Of BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe

Start by boiling the macaroni until al dente and prepare your cheese sauce by whisking flour and butter, then adding milk and shredded cheeses until smooth. Mix in cooked pasta, your BBQ meat, and tangy barbecue sauce. Combine everything in a baking dish, add a breadcrumb topping if desired, and bake until bubbly and golden.

Step By Step Instructions

Boil the Pasta
Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour to form a roux, and gradually stir in milk until smooth. Simmer until thickened.

Add the Cheese
Mix in cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine pasta, cheese sauce, BBQ sauce, and shredded BBQ meat. Mix well.

Assemble and Bake
Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs tossed in olive oil or melted butter. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until golden and bubbling.

How to Serve?

Serve hot as a main course with a side salad
Pair with grilled vegetables or roasted corn
Add a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce before serving
Serve with pickles or coleslaw for contrast
Top with fresh herbs or scallions for color

Tips & Variations

Use smoked gouda or pepper jack for extra flavor.

Make it spicy by adding jalapeños or hot sauce.

Double the recipe for large family gatherings.

Swap pulled pork for brisket or shredded chicken.

Top with crushed chips instead of breadcrumbs.

Nutrition

Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 23 g
Fat: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 780 mg

Recipe Card

BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe

Recipe by Rachael rayCourse: Lunch, Dinner

Servings

6 people

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

520

kcal

BBQ Mac and Cheese is a flavorful comfort food that marries smoky barbecue meat with creamy, cheesy pasta. The rich cheese sauce and tender pulled pork create a bold and satisfying dish that’s baked to golden perfection. Ideal for dinner, parties, or potlucks, this recipe is easy to prepare and loved by both kids and adults. Add a crunchy topping for texture or keep it simple and gooey it’s a customizable classic that never disappoints. Whether you’re a BBQ fan or a mac and cheese lover, this dish brings the best of both worlds to your table.

Ingredients

Elbow macaroni
Butter
All-purpose flour
Whole milk
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Salt
Black pepper
Prepared BBQ sauce
Cooked pulled pork or smoked meat of choice
Breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Olive oil or melted butter (for topping)

Directions

Boil the Pasta
Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour to form a roux, and gradually stir in milk until smooth. Simmer until thickened.
Add the Cheese
Mix in cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine pasta, cheese sauce, BBQ sauce, and shredded BBQ meat. Mix well.
Assemble and Bake
Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs tossed in olive oil or melted butter. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Recipe Video

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce.
Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Can be frozen before baking and reheated when needed.
Let it rest for 5 minutes after baking for best texture.

FAQs

Yes, you can skip the baking step and serve it straight from the stove. It’ll still be delicious and creamy.

Pulled pork is classic, but smoked brisket or chicken also work well. Use what you have!

Yes, omit the meat and add roasted vegetables or beans for protein.

Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds flavor, but mixing in mozzarella or gouda enhances creaminess.

Conclusion

This BBQ Mac and Cheese recipe is a mouthwatering twist on a beloved classic, loaded with bold barbecue flavor and creamy cheese. It’s easy to make, flexible for different meats or vegetarian options, and always a hit at gatherings or family dinners. With its hearty texture, smoky aroma, and comforting taste, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings any time of the year. Make it once, and it will become your go-to dish for when you want something indulgent yet fuss-free. Dive into this cheesy, BBQ-infused delight and enjoy a meal that’s both nostalgic and exciting.