Ingredients

• Elbow Macaroni: 1 lb (or pasta of choice)
• Butter: 4 tablespoons
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup
• Milk: 2 cups
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup
• Ranch Seasoning Mix: 1 packet (about 1 oz)
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded
• Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
• BBQ Sauce: 1/2 cup
• Cooked Bacon: 1/2 cup, crumbled
• Green Onions: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional for garnish)
• Salt and Black Pepper: to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Begin by cooking the macaroni (or pasta of choice) according to the package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour, whisking constantly to make a roux. Cook for about 1–2 minutes, until the roux turns a light golden color and no lumps remain.
   • Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 5 minutes.
   • Stir in the ranch seasoning mix, followed by the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and add salt and black pepper as needed.
3. Combine with Pasta and Add BBQ Flavor:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat the pasta evenly.
   • Pour in the BBQ sauce and gently stir to combine, ensuring that the sauce is evenly distributed throughout the pasta.
4. Add Bacon and Garnish:
   • Fold in the crumbled bacon, reserving a little for garnish if desired. Stir to evenly distribute the bacon in the dish.
   • If you prefer a crispy topping, sprinkle some additional shredded cheese and a little crumbled bacon on top.
5. Bake (Optional):
   • This dish is delicious as is, but if you prefer a baked version, transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, smoky flavors of this BBQ Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 540 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 33g
• Sugars: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 960mg

Note: Nutrition values may vary slightly depending on ingredient brands and variations in preparation.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is a classic choice, you can substitute with any pasta you like—rotini, penne, or shell pasta work well to hold the creamy sauce.

Q: How do I make this mac and cheese spicier?
A: For a spicy kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce or use a spicy BBQ sauce. You could also mix in diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. When ready, simply bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, about 25–30 minutes.

Q: Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
A: To make this gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and substitute a gluten-free flour in the roux. Check that the ranch seasoning mix is also gluten-free.

Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Yes! While cheddar and mozzarella provide a nice balance of sharpness and meltability, you can also try Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Colby Jack for added flavor.

Tips for Making BBQ Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente. It will absorb more of the cheese sauce as it sits, so it’s best not to overcook it initially.
• Get the Right Consistency: If the cheese sauce seems too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a creamier texture than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
• Add BBQ Sauce Gradually: For a perfect balance, add the BBQ sauce gradually and taste as you go. Some BBQ sauces are sweeter or smokier than others, so adjust according to your preference.
• Optional Toppings: Add a crispy breadcrumb topping if desired by combining 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese before baking.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Freeze: BBQ Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. Add a little milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer.

Conclusion

BBQ Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese is a fun, flavorful twist on traditional mac and cheese. This recipe blends smoky BBQ sauce, creamy ranch seasoning, savory bacon, and melted cheddar and mozzarella into one indulgent dish. It’s a recipe that’s both comforting and bold, making it a great choice for family meals, potlucks, or special occasions. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, this mac and cheese will definitely be a hit with its rich flavors and irresistible texture.

Give this recipe a try and bring a delicious twist to your mac and cheese routine. With just a few ingredients and steps, you’ll be creating a dish that’s packed with flavor and sure to impress anyone who loves good, hearty comfort food. Enjoy every creamy, smoky bite!