1. Does BBQ Sauce Go with Mac and Cheese?

✅ Yes! BBQ sauce adds a smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet contrast to the creamy, cheesy mac. It enhances the flavor and makes it even more mouthwatering .

2. Is It OK to BBQ Bacon?

✅ Absolutely! Grilling bacon gives it extra crispiness and a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with mac and cheese. 🔥 How to BBQ Bacon: Preheat the grill to medium heat (350°F-375°F) . Place bacon directly on the grill grates (or use a grilling tray). Cook for 3-5 minutes per side until crispy. Let it cool and chop into bits for topping your mac and cheese.

3. What Does Putting an Egg in Mac and Cheese Do?

ture . It’s commonly used in Southern baked mac and cheese to make the dish more firm and structured. 🥚 How to Add an Egg: Beat one egg in a small bowl. Slowly whisk in a little warm cheese sauce to temper the egg (this prevents scrambling). Stir the egg mixture into the cheese sauce before mixing with the pasta.

4. How Long to Smoke Mac and Cheese at 225°F?

⏳ About 45 minutes to 1 hour. 🔥 Smoking Instructions: Preheat your smoker to 225°F . Assemble mac and cheese in a cast iron skillet or aluminum pan . Use hickory, applewood, or pecan wood chips for a mild smoky flavor. Smoke uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour , stirring every 20 minutes.

The Ultimate Guide to BBQ Bacon Mac: Smoky, Cheesy, and Irresistible

Description

This BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with smoky, savory flavors! Tender pasta is coated in a velvety cheese sauce, mixed with crispy bacon, and drizzled with tangy BBQ sauce for the perfect balance of flavors. Whether baked, grilled, or smoked, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for cookouts, game days, or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

12 oz elbow macaroni (or cavatappi/shells)
1 tbsp butter (to coat the pasta after cooking)
Salt (for boiling water)

For the Cheese Sauce:

3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, gouda, Monterey Jack, or smoked cheddar)
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt & pepper to taste

For the Bacon & BBQ Flavor:

6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy & chopped
½ cup BBQ sauce (Kansas City-style, honey, or spicy BBQ sauce)
½ cup additional shredded cheese (for topping)
¼ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
1 tbsp bacon grease (optional, for added smoky flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions for an al dente texture.
Drain and toss with 1 tbsp butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy (about 6-8 minutes).
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
(Optional) Save 1 tbsp of bacon grease for the cheese sauce.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Slowly add milk and heavy cream, whisking to remove lumps.
Simmer until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in shredded cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Remove from heat once the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Mac and Cheese

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, cheese sauce, and half of the chopped bacon.
Pour into a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish.
Drizzle BBQ sauce on top and gently mix for a marbled effect.
Sprinkle remaining bacon, extra cheese, and panko breadcrumbs (if using).

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
(Optional) Broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispy top.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

✅ Customizable! Swap bacon for pulled pork or smoked brisket for extra BBQ flavor.
🔥 Grill or Smoker Option: Prepare in a cast iron skillet and cook on the grill or smoker at 225°F for 45 minutes for a smoky twist.
🌱 Gluten-Free/Dairy-Free? Use gluten-free pasta, cornstarch instead of flour, and dairy-free cheese.
💡 Storage & Reheating:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or on the stovetop with a splash of milk for creaminess.
Freezing tip: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American / BBQ

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6 servings
Calories: ~550 kcal
Fat: 32g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 20g

Keywords: BBQ Bacon Mac