Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’ve ever dined at Mission BBQ, you know their mac and cheese is the stuff of dreams — creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked. 

Now, you don’t have to wait for your next visit to enjoy it! Today, I’m sharing an irresistible Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe that brings all that rich, comforting flavor right into your own kitchen. 

Whether you’re preparing for a weekend BBQ, a family gathering, or simply treating yourself, this recipe guarantees that same crave-worthy experience.

What sets this Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe apart is the harmonious blend of cheeses, the luscious creaminess, and the slight crisp topping that makes each bite unforgettable. 

Plus, I’ll guide you with simple, clear steps and some handy tips to make it foolproof, even if you’re a beginner.

Ready to wow your friends and family with a homemade classic? Let’s dive right in!

When I First Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe

I first tried Mission BBQ’s mac and cheese at a Fourth of July cookout, and I was instantly hooked. 

The creamy, gooey texture combined with the subtle smoky undertones made it unforgettable. That experience sparked my mission (pun intended!) to recreate the Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe at home. 

After several delicious experiments, I’ve finally perfected a version that captures all the magic of the original!

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater
• Wooden spoon
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients List

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe – Step by Step Preparation

Step 1:

Boil the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2:

Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly for about 2 minutes until golden.

Step 3:

Create the Sauce: Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking to eliminate lumps. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat.

Step 4:

Add Flavor: Stir in the Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 5:

Melt the Cheese: Add cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until melted and smooth.

Step 6:

Combine: Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly coated.

Step 7:

Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese.

Step 8:

Assemble and Bake: Transfer mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the pasta.

Step 9:

Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Tips For Success

1. Grate Your Own Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and provides superior flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook Pasta: Slightly undercook the macaroni to prevent mushy results after baking.
3. Season Every Layer: Taste your cheese sauce before combining it with pasta for perfect seasoning.
4. Use Quality Cheese: Premium cheeses like aged cheddar make a noticeable difference in taste.
5. Allow Resting Time: Let the baked mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving for a creamier texture.

Variations

• Add Smoked Meat: Stir in shredded smoked brisket or pulled pork for a heartier meal.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
• Veggie Loaded: Mix in sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or caramelized onions.
• Different Cheeses: Swap in Gruyère, Fontina, or Havarti for new flavor profiles.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make this Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe accessible to everyone.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like a homemade batch of creamy, cheesy goodness straight from your own oven. 

With this Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe, you can enjoy the authentic flavors you love anytime you like. 

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in some cozy comfort food, this recipe delivers unbeatable taste and satisfaction. Give it a try — you’ll never need to order out for mac and cheese again!

FAQs

Can I freeze Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese?

While freshly baked is best, you can freeze the Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe. Assemble and freeze before baking.

When ready to serve, bake straight from frozen at 350°F, covered, for about 45-50 minutes, then uncover and bake until bubbly.

How many servings does the Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese recipe make?

This Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe yields about 8 hearty servings, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or barbecue gatherings.

What sides go well with Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese?

The Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe pairs perfectly with sides like coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, green beans, or a simple garden salad.

These fresh and hearty sides balance the richness of the dish.