BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet – Ultimate Comfort

Imagine a creamy, cheesy macaroni dish infused with the smoky, tantalizing notes of barbecue, and crowned with the irresistible crunch of bacon. Welcome to the world of BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet – a culinary masterpiece that blends the classic comfort of mac and cheese with the bold flavors of BBQ. This one-pan wonder is sure to become a new family favorite, satisfying both your taste buds and your cravings for a hearty, indulgent meal.

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Ingredients and Tools Needed

To create this BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet masterpiece, you’ll need a few essential ingredients and kitchen tools. Gather up 8 ounces of elbow macaroni, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of cooked bacon (crumbled), and 1 cup of your favorite BBQ pulled chicken or beef. For the cheese sauce, you’ll need 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of milk, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

As for the kitchen tools, you’ll need a skillet, a pot for boiling the pasta, a whisk, and your trusty measuring cups and spoons. With these simple ingredients and equipment, you’ll be well on your way to creating a BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the elbow macaroni until it’s al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to be incorporated into the cheesy, BBQ-infused goodness.

Making the Cheese Sauce

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour, creating a roux. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue to cook the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency, about 5-7 minutes.

Melting the Cheese

Once the cheese sauce has thickened, it’s time to add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir the cheese into the sauce until it’s fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Combining the Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring all the components together. Add the cooked elbow macaroni, the BBQ pulled chicken or beef, and the crumbled bacon to the cheesy sauce. Gently stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and the flavors are fully incorporated.

Optional Baking or Broiling

For an extra crispy and bubbly top, you can transfer the BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet to a baking dish and broil it for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crunchy.

Tips for Perfecting Your BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet

To ensure your BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:

• Cheese Selection: While cheddar cheese is the star of the show, you can experiment with other melty cheeses like mozzarella or even a blend of cheeses to add more depth of flavor.
• BBQ Meat Variations: Feel free to use either BBQ pulled chicken or beef, depending on your personal preference or what you have on hand.
• Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of smoked paprika to suit your spice tolerance. For an extra kick, you can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Reheating Leftovers: When reheating any leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to the skillet to help restore the creaminess of the cheese sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

The BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet is a true showstopper on its own, but you can also serve it alongside some delectable side dishes to create a complete and satisfying meal. Consider pairing it with garlic bread or a crisp coleslaw to balance the richness of the dish. And for the perfect beverage pairing, a cold, refreshing beer or a glass of bold red wine would be an excellent choice.

For a visually appealing presentation, consider garnishing the BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet with extra crumbled bacon, a drizzle of BBQ sauce, or a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

A hearty serving of BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet clocks in at approximately 650 calories, with 35 grams of fat, 40 grams of carbohydrates, and 35 grams of protein. While this dish is certainly a indulgent treat, you can make a few healthier substitutions, such as using whole-grain pasta or reducing the amount of cheese, to lighten it up a bit.

As for serving size, a single portion of this BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet is quite substantial, so we recommend serving it in generous portions, perhaps alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Cheesy Bacon Burger Rollups
• BBQ Chicken Bacon Cheese Fry Casserole
• Bacon Ranch Chicken Mac & Cheese Bombs
• BBQ Bacon Mac & Cheese Waffle Sandwiches

FAQs for BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet

1. What ingredients do I need to make BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet?

To make BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet, you will need the following ingredients: elbow macaroni, bacon, cheddar cheese (and optionally other cheeses like mozzarella or cream cheese), BBQ sauce, milk or cream, butter, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Optional toppings include green onions or parsley for garnish.

2. How long does it take to prepare and cook BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet?

The total time to prepare and cook BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet is approximately 30 to 45 minutes. This includes about 10 minutes for preparation (cooking the bacon, boiling the pasta, etc.) and 20 to 30 minutes for cooking everything together in the skillet.

3. Can I make BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet ahead of time. Cook the dish as instructed, then let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

4. What can I substitute for bacon in BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet?

If you want to make a version without bacon, you can use alternatives such as diced smoked turkey, sausage, or even plant-based bacon for a vegetarian option. You can also increase the amount of cheese or add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

Conclusion

When it comes to comfort food that packs a punch of flavor, the BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet reigns supreme. This irresistible dish combines the classic creaminess of mac and cheese with the smoky, tangy notes of barbecue and the crispy, salty goodness of bacon. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself to a cozy, indulgent meal, this BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet is sure to satisfy your every craving. So, grab a skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to dive into a world of cheesy, bacon-y, BBQ-infused bliss!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.