Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe

Welcome to the ultimate guide for making Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Mission BBQ or just discovering their legendary comfort food, this recipe will allow you to recreate their signature cheesy dish in your own kitchen. Packed with rich flavors and creamy goodness, it’s perfect for family dinners, parties, or a cozy night in. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!

Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Course
• Servings: 4 people
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

What is Mission BBQ?

Mission BBQ is a popular American restaurant chain that serves traditional barbecue food with a patriotic flair. Since its founding in 2011, the restaurant has honored military personnel, firefighters, police officers, and first responders. With a focus on hearty, flavorful barbecue and classic sides like mac and cheese, Mission BBQ has become a favorite for those seeking authentic American flavors.

What Does Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Taste Like?

Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food: creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. The combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The pasta is perfectly cooked and coated in a sauce that has the right balance of tangy sharpness and smooth richness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Equipment

To make the Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe, you’ll need the following Equipment:

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Saucepan (for making cheese sauce)
• Whisk
• Baking dish (if you prefer baked mac and cheese)
• Oven (if baking)
• Spoon or spatula

How To Make Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

• In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
• Whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly.
• Gradually add milk and heavy cream while whisking, ensuring the mixture is smooth.
• Once the sauce thickens, add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Continue stirring until the cheeses melt into a creamy sauce.

Step 3: Combine

•  Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat each piece of pasta.

Step 4: Optional Baking

• For a baked version, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

•  Serve immediately for the creamiest version, or bake if you prefer a crispier topping.

Serving Suggestions

Below I have listed some serving suggestions for the Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe:

• Pulled pork
• Smoked ribs
• Grilled chicken
• Coleslaw
• Cornbread

It’s also great as a standalone dish for a hearty lunch or dinner!

Storage Techniques

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze mac and cheese for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Expert Tips

Below I have mentioned some tips for your Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for a unique flavor twist.
• Creaminess Tip: For an extra creamy texture, use half-and-half instead of milk and cream, or even add a dollop of cream cheese.
• Breadcrumbs: For a crunchy topping, toss breadcrumbs in melted butter before sprinkling them over the mac and cheese before baking.
• Cooking Pasta: Always undercook the pasta slightly when boiling it, as it will continue to cook when combined with the hot cheese sauce or while baking.

Health Benefits

While mac and cheese is undeniably rich and indulgent, it also has a few notable benefits:

• Calcium: The cheese and milk used in this recipe are excellent sources of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
• Protein: The cheeses provide a good amount of protein, helping with muscle repair and overall health.
• Comfort: Mac and cheese can be comforting during stressful times, making it a great mood booster.

However, it’s best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake, as this is a high-fat, high-carb dish.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g

Note: These values may vary based on portion sizes and exact ingredients used.

History and Origin

Mac and cheese is believed to have originated in Europe, specifically Italy, where pasta and cheese dishes have been popular for centuries. It was brought to the U.S. by Thomas Jefferson, who enjoyed the dish during his travels to France. Over time, it became a beloved American classic. Mission BBQ has added its signature touch to this dish, turning it into a smoky, creamy side that complements its barbecue offerings.

Wrapping Up

Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats at a barbecue or simply enjoying it as a comforting main dish, this recipe delivers a rich, cheesy experience that’s hard to resist. With the right ingredients, a few expert tips, and a bit of love, you can recreate this favorite dish at home and impress your family and friends!

Some Other Recipes You’ll Love

• Peach Cobbler Recipe With Cake Mix
• Classic Vanilla Cake Recipe
• Mike’s Farm Macaroni and Cheese
• Mamey Ice Cream Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour substitute when making the roux for the cheese sauce.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prepare the mac and cheese in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, bake it in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

How can I prevent the mac and cheese from drying out?

To keep the mac and cheese creamy, be sure not to overbake it. Also, adding a splash of milk or cream while reheating will help restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

Enjoy your homemade Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese!