Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe

Before I share my story about this Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe, you should know that I’m a big fan of mac and cheese dishes. I’ve tried many different styles, and I plan to share them on my blog in the coming months.

I remember the first time I tasted Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese. I was working in Arizona at Paradise Valley. It was my first time ordering at Mission BBQ, so I decided to try their Smoked Salmon, which I believe was around $15.74. I’m not sure what the price is now due to inflation, but the dish was amazing. I also ordered a side of mac and cheese, which made the meal even better for me.

That day, I was sure I needed to recreate this Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese at home. Now, I’m sharing my copycat recipe with my own style, and I’m confident you’ll love it.

I used elbow macaroni for the pasta, and I believe the secret ingredients are the Dijon mustard and the blend of cheeses I use. I base it with shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and I also add Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheeses.

To make it unique, I added panko breadcrumbs, but you can use any breadcrumbs you prefer. The dish turned out to be so delicious, cozy, and creamy that you can enjoy it as a main dish, not just as a side.

Ingredients

• 16 oz elbow macaroni
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter

How to Make Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese?

Step 1:

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the macaroni. After that, drain and set aside.

Step 2:

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, and keep whisking.

Step 3:

Add the Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the mixture cook for a few minutes.

Step 4:

Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted well.

Step 5:

Pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring to coat every piece of pasta with the creamy mixture.

Step 6:

In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter.

Step 7:

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Transfer the mac and cheese to your greased baking dish and spread the breadcrumb topping over the surface.

Step 8:

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Enjoy.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Strainer
• Large saucepan
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Oven

Helpful Tips!

• I love to mix sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan to make the sauce has that great extra cheesy taste that everyone loves.
• Remember to whisk the milk and butter mixture to ensure the sauce stays smooth.
• For spicy food lovers, Stir in diced jalapeños to give the dish the touch you love.

What to Serve with Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese?

Since I first tasted this Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese with salmon, I thought every seafood dish would pair nicely with it, and I was right. The creamy mac and cheese perfectly complements seafood, and I enjoyed it as a side with Baby Octopus and Tomato Spaghetti. The creamy flavors of the mac and cheese mixed so well with the juicy, tangy tomato sauce of the spaghetti and the salty taste of the octopus. Also, a juicy steak would be a must-have with this mac and cheese, The options are truly endless, so get creative and share with me your ideas in the comment section below.

FAQ

How can I make this mac and cheese creamier?

Use extra cheese and a little more heavy cream. Also, avoid overbaking.

What’s the best cheese to use?

I love to use Sharp cheddar as the best base.

Can I freeze mac and cheese?

Yes, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.

What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

Regular breadcrumbs work well for a crunchy topping.

Can I make this on the stovetop only?

Yes, simply skip the baking step and serve the mac and cheese straight from the pan.

How can I add more flavor?

Try to add a little Worcestershire sauce.

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