Are you torn between having barbecue or mac and cheese for dinner tonight? Well, why not have both? Smoked BBQ Mac and Cheese combines the rich, creamy goodness of mac and cheese with the tangy and smoky flavors of barbecue sauce. It's the perfect comfort food that is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Does Barbecue Sauce Go Well with Mac and Cheese?
When two beloved dishes come together, magic happens. The sweet and spicy heat of tangy barbecue sauce complements the savory and creamy mac and cheese perfectly. Whether you prefer your favorite brand of barbecue sauce or want to try making your own, the combination of flavors is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients for Smoked BBQ Mac and Cheese
To make this delectable dish, you'll need the following ingredients:
- Milk, butter, and all-purpose flour: These form the base for the creamy sauce.
- Pasta: Choose your favorite type, such as penne, cavatappi, or rotini.
- Extra-sharp Cheddar and Gouda: These cheeses bring a sharp and velvety texture to the dish.
- Hot sauce: Add a bit of heat and loads of flavor.
- Black pepper and kosher salt: For seasoning.
- Pulled pork barbecue: Without sauce.
- Crumbled cornbread, olive oil, and green onions: For the delicious topping.
- Barbecue sauce: A final drizzle to enhance the flavors.
Feel free to substitute the pulled pork with shredded chicken or omit the meat entirely if you prefer a vegetarian version. The barbecue flavor will still shine through.
How to Make Smoked BBQ Mac and Cheese
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let's dive into the cooking process:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by boiling salted water and cooking the pasta until it reaches the al dente stage. Remember to undercook it slightly as it will continue to cook in the creamy sauce while the topping toasts under the broiler.
Step 2: Make the Cheesy Sauce
In a large skillet, melt butter and add flour, stirring until thickened. Slowly whisk in hot milk, bringing it to a boil and cooking until thickened. Remove from heat and whisk in the grated Cheddar and Gouda cheeses, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. The result is a smooth and flavorful cheese sauce.
Step 3: Combine Pasta, Cheese Sauce, and Pulled Pork
Drain the cooked pasta and stir it into the cheese sauce until well coated. Then, gently fold in the pulled pork barbecue, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Step 4: Add the Topping and Finish
Sprinkle a combination of crumbled cornbread and olive oil over the top of the mac and cheese. Add a generous amount of green onions for a pop of freshness. Broil the dish for 1 to 2 minutes until the topping turns golden brown and crispy. Finally, drizzle some barbecue sauce over the dish before serving.
Make-Ahead Option for Smoked BBQ Mac and Cheese
If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can make and assemble it up to 3 days before serving. Simply refrigerate it and then bake it at 325°F until heated throughout. Finish it off by broiling for that irresistible golden crust.
What to Serve with Smoked BBQ Mac and Cheese
Whether you choose to enjoy this dish as an entrée or a side dish, it's a complete meal on its own. However, if you want to balance out the richness, serve it with a helping of steamed broccoli, green beans, or your favorite vegetable side dish.
Smoked BBQ Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines the best of both worlds: the creamy goodness of mac and cheese and the tangy and smoky flavors of barbecue sauce. With its rich and satisfying taste, it's no wonder this dish is a favorite among families. So why not treat yourself to a bowl of this deliciousness and satisfy your cravings today?
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