Nothing brings people together like good food and great company. Our Community BBQ Mac N Cheese recipe combines two all-time favorites into one irresistible dish that’s perfect for sharing. This creamy, cheesy mac is loaded with smoky BBQ flavors that add a delicious twist to a classic comfort food.
We’ve crafted this recipe to be easy, crowd-pleasing, and full of bold flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or a casual family dinner, this BBQ mac and cheese is sure to be the star of the table. Let’s dive into this hearty, flavorful dish that celebrates community and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Community BBQ Mac N Cheese, we gather a balanced mix of dry ingredients, wet ingredients, and the crucial BBQ sauce with toppings that bring smoky richness and vibrant textures. Each component plays an essential role in delivering the delightful harmony of flavors this dish promises.
Dry Ingredients
For the foundations that create rich texture and depth in our BBQ Mac N Cheese, we use quality dry ingredients measured precisely for consistency:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
Wet Ingredients
The creamy body of our dish depends on carefully combined wet ingredients, creating that luscious, cheesy sauce:
- 4 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups cooked pulled pork or shredded smoked chicken (optional but recommended)
BBQ Sauce and Toppings
Our signature BBQ sauce and toppings define the smoky, savory spirit of this crowd-pleaser, giving it its character and finish:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (choose your preferred bold style)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1-2 jalapeños, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
- Extra shredded cheddar for topping
| Ingredient Category | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Ingredients | Elbow macaroni, shredded sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, Parmesan, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, salt, panko breadcrumbs | Use freshly grated cheeses for best melt |
| Wet Ingredients | Whole milk, unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, cooked pulled pork or smoked chicken | Warm milk improves sauce texture |
| BBQ Sauce and Toppings | Barbecue sauce, chopped green onions, cilantro, sliced jalapeños, extra shredded cheddar | Customize sauce for sweet or spicy profile |
With these ingredients, we ensure every portion of our Community BBQ Mac N Cheese bursts with the perfect balance of creamy, smoky, spicy, and cheesy notes for memorable sharing moments.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Community BBQ Mac N Cheese recipe efficiently and achieve the perfect creamy texture infused with smoky BBQ flavors, gathering the right equipment is essential. Here’s what we recommend:
- Large Pot: For boiling elbow macaroni until al dente.
- Colander: To drain the pasta thoroughly without losing any pieces.
- Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: Ideal for making the cheese sauce base, ensuring even heat distribution.
- Whisk: To blend the butter, flour, milk, and seasonings smoothly for a velvety béchamel.
- Mixing Spoon: For stirring the macaroni and cheese sauce together and combining BBQ elements.
- Oven-Safe Baking Dish (9×13 inch): Perfect for layering the mac and cheese along with toppings before baking.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping green onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and other toppings.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy with milk, spices, and cheeses is crucial to balance flavors.
- Grater: For shredding cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and Parmesan.
- Aluminum Foil: To cover the baking dish during baking, preventing crust from burning.
- Serving Spoon: To serve generous portions of this crowd-pleasing comfort dish.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boiling elbow macaroni |
| Colander | Draining pasta |
| Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan | Cooking cheese sauce |
| Whisk | Combining wet ingredients evenly |
| Mixing Spoon | Stirring mixtures |
| Oven-Safe Baking Dish | Baking mac and cheese |
| Sharp Knife & Cutting Board | Preparing toppings |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Grater | Shredding cheese varieties |
| Aluminum Foil | Covering dish during baking |
| Serving Spoon | Plating the finished recipe |
Preparation
Let’s dive into the essential steps to create our Community BBQ Mac N Cheese. Follow each phase carefully to achieve the perfect blend of creamy texture and bold, smoky flavors.
Preparing the Macaroni
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add 12 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Boil for 7 to 8 minutes until the pasta is al dente: tender but still firm to the bite.
- Drain the macaroni in a colander and immediately rinse briefly with cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps maintain the desired texture.
- Set the macaroni aside to drain thoroughly while we prepare the other components.
| Step | Detail | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Boil salted water | High heat | 5 minutes |
| Cook elbow macaroni | Stir occasionally | 7 to 8 minutes |
| Drain and rinse | Cold water rinse | 1 minute |
Preparing the BBQ Meat
- If using pulled pork or smoked chicken, ensure it is shredded into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 cup of prepared BBQ sauce to warm it gently.
- Add the shredded meat to the skillet, stirring to coat it evenly with the BBQ sauce.
- Let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until heated through and infused with the BBQ flavor.
- Remove from heat and keep covered to maintain warmth while prepping the cheese sauce.
Tip: Using smoky meats like pulled pork or smoked chicken enhances the signature BBQ flavor of this dish, making it irresistible.
Prepping the Cheese Sauce
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Gradually whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour to create a smooth roux, cooking for 2 minutes until it bubbles but does not brown.
- Slowly add 4 cups warmed whole milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for depth.
- Cook this mixture, stirring frequently until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and fold in the cheese blend:
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup smoked gouda cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Stir gently until all the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Finally, fold in the prepared macaroni and the BBQ meat mixture until everything is well combined.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Base for roux |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup | Thickening agent |
| Warm whole milk | 4 cups | Creamy sauce base |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | Adds tangy depth |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 teaspoon | Enhances smoky flavor |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 1 1/2 cups shredded | Primary cheese flavor |
| Smoked gouda cheese | 1 cup shredded | Smoky richness |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup grated | Adds sharpness |
Reminder: Whisking continuously while adding milk and cooking the roux ensures a silky smooth cheese sauce without lumps.
With these preparation steps complete, our dish is ready for the final assembly and baking stage.
Directions
Follow these precise steps to craft our Community BBQ Mac N Cheese with perfectly balanced smoky, creamy, and cheesy flavors that bring everyone together.
Cooking the Macaroni
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add elbow macaroni and cook uncovered for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook the pasta until it is al dente—tender but with a slight bite.
- Drain the macaroni using a colander.
- Immediately rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process and set aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in all-purpose flour to create a roux; cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it forms a smooth paste and smells slightly nutty.
- Gradually whisk in warmed whole milk in small increments, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce for tangy depth.
- Add the blended cheeses (sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, Parmesan) gradually, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Combining Macaroni, Cheese Sauce, and BBQ Meat
- Transfer the drained macaroni to a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the hot cheese sauce over the macaroni.
- Add the warmed pulled pork or smoked chicken, thoroughly coated in BBQ sauce.
- Gently fold all ingredients together ensuring every bite has a perfect balance of cheesy richness and smoky BBQ flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 1 lb (16 oz) | Cooked al dente |
| Pulled pork/smoked chicken | 2 cups | Warmed and mixed with BBQ sauce |
| Cheese blend | 3 cups shredded | Sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, Parmesan |
| BBQ sauce | 1 cup | Use your favorite smoky BBQ sauce |
Baking the Mac N Cheese
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the mixed macaroni, cheese sauce, and BBQ meat into a greased oven-safe baking dish.
- Optionally, sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 20 minutes covered.
- Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and the top turns golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro, and sliced jalapeños for a fresh, spicy finish.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Community BBQ Mac N Cheese and create a memorable meal experience, we recommend pairing it with dishes that complement its rich, smoky, and creamy profile. Here are some proven serving ideas that will satisfy any crowd:
Perfect Pairings for the Ultimate Community BBQ Experience
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Coleslaw | Crisp, tangy, refreshing | Cuts through the richness of mac and cheese |
| Grilled Corn on the Cob | Sweet, smoky, buttery | Adds natural sweetness and texture |
| Baked Beans | Smoky, slightly sweet | Enhances BBQ flavors, hearty side option |
| Pickled Jalapeños | Spicy, vinegary | Adds a spicy contrast to creamy dish |
Beverage Suggestions
We find that beverages that balance the smoky and cheesy flavors make an ideal accompaniment:
- Iced Tea (sweetened or unsweetened) to refresh the palate.
- Craft Beer with robust or hoppy notes pairs well with barbecue elements.
- Lemonade for a bright and citrusy contrast to the creamy texture.
Plating and Presentation Tips
- Serve our Community BBQ Mac N Cheese in a rustic oven-safe dish to emphasize its hearty community feel.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, and a few sliced jalapeños for a pop of color and bite.
- Provide extra BBQ sauce on the side for guests who want an extra smoky kick.
Quote to Inspire Sharing
“Good food is all the sweeter when shared with good friends.”
Our dish embodies this spirit by bringing together the joy of barbecue and comfort food in one crowd-pleasing recipe. Let’s make every gathering a celebration with this rich and flavorful dish.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To keep our Community BBQ Mac N Cheese fresh and delicious for later enjoyment, proper storage and thoughtful make-ahead steps are essential. Follow these guidelines to maintain the creamy texture and smoky flavor that make this dish a crowd favorite.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the mac and cheese to cool at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
- Transfer leftovers into an airtight container to preserve moisture and prevent absorption of other odors in the fridge.
- Refrigerate the dish for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
| Storage Method | Duration | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 4 days | Use airtight containers to lock in freshness |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Portion into single servings, wrap tightly to avoid freezer burn |
Reheating Instructions
- From the refrigerator:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Heat for 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
- From frozen:
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat as above, adding 10-15 minutes if still partially frozen.
- To prevent drying out, stir occasionally while reheating or add a tablespoon of milk to maintain creaminess.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- We can prepare the BBQ meat and cheese sauce steps a day ahead. Store each component separately in the refrigerator.
- Cook and drain the elbow macaroni in advance, then toss with a little oil to prevent sticking. Refrigerate in a sealed container.
- On the day of serving, combine all components and proceed with the baking instructions.
- This method eases timing, especially when hosting larger gatherings.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Do not freeze the mac and cheese after baking as the texture can become grainy and separate.
- Fresh toppings like green onions and jalapeños should be added just before serving to retain their crispness and vibrant flavor.
- When reheating, adding a small knob of butter or a splash of milk restores creaminess and enhances the smoky BBQ taste.
“Good food is all the sweeter when shared. Proper storage means our Community BBQ Mac N Cheese will be just as delightful the second time around.”
By following these classic storage techniques and make-ahead tips, we ensure every bite stays as full of flavor and comforting textures as the first.
Conclusion
This Community BBQ Mac N Cheese recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavor and togetherness. Its creamy texture, smoky BBQ notes, and cheesy goodness make it a standout dish that’s sure to impress any crowd.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or a cozy family dinner, this recipe offers a perfect balance of comfort and bold taste. With simple steps and accessible ingredients, we can all enjoy creating a dish that brings people closer around the table.
Let’s embrace the joy of sharing food that warms both the heart and the palate. This mac and cheese will quickly become a favorite go-to for memorable gatherings and delicious moments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Community BBQ Mac N Cheese different from regular mac and cheese?
Community BBQ Mac N Cheese combines traditional creamy cheese sauce with smoky BBQ flavors and pulled pork or smoked chicken, creating a savory, hearty dish perfect for sharing at gatherings.
What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?
A blend of sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and Parmesan cheeses is recommended to achieve a rich, smoky, and well-balanced cheesy flavor.
Can I use other types of meat besides pulled pork or smoked chicken?
Yes, you can substitute with other shredded meats like smoked brisket or even keep it vegetarian by skipping the meat and focusing on BBQ sauce and toppings.
What equipment do I need to prepare this dish?
You’ll need a large pot, colander, heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk, mixing spoon, baking dish, knife, cutting board, measuring tools, grater, aluminum foil, and a serving spoon.
How do I ensure the macaroni stays creamy and not dry?
Cook macaroni al dente, rinse to stop cooking, combine immediately with hot cheese sauce, and bake covered initially to keep moisture before uncovering for a crust.
What side dishes pair well with Community BBQ Mac N Cheese?
Classic coleslaw, grilled corn on the cob, baked beans, and pickled jalapeños are great side options that complement the dish’s smoky and creamy profile.
How should I store leftovers?
Cool leftovers within two hours, store in an airtight container, refrigerate for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare components in advance, assemble before baking, and bake just before serving to save time during your gathering.
What toppings are suggested to enhance the dish?
Fresh green onions, cilantro, and sliced jalapeños add bright and spicy flavors that enhance the smoky, cheesy taste.
Is this recipe suitable for large groups?
Absolutely. It’s designed to be a crowd-pleaser and ideal for sharing, making it perfect for backyard cookouts and family dinners.