BBQ Bacon Cheddar Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the Macaroni: Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
  3. Drain and Rinse: Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

  1. Combine Cheese and Cream: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained pasta, 4 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup of softened cream cheese, and 1/2 cup of whole milk.
  2. Mix in BBQ Sauce and Ranch: Add 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce, 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
  3. Stir Well: Using a spatula, mix everything until well combined. The cheese should melt into a creamy sauce as you mix.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

  1. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, cook 4 slices of bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet, drain on paper towels, and crumble once cooled. (Alternatively, you can use pre-cooked bacon.)

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish.
  3. Add Bacon: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the top.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

  1. Make the Breadcrumb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika (if using). Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
  2. Top the Mac ‘n’ Cheese: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the mac ‘n’ cheese. Then, top with an additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Mac ‘n’ Cheese

  1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  2. Garnish: Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce before serving for added flavor and presentation.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Let It Cool: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving.
  2. Serve Hot: Dish up generous portions and enjoy the comforting flavors of BBQ, bacon, and creamy cheese!

Tips for the Best BBQ Bacon Cheddar Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese

  • Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
  • Add Veggies: Consider adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even steamed broccoli for extra nutrition.
  • Adjust the BBQ Sauce: Experiment with different BBQ sauces—smoky, sweet, or spicy—to match your personal taste.
  • Make It Ahead: Prepare the mac ‘n’ cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

This BBQ Bacon Cheddar Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines bold flavors and creamy textures, making it a hit at any gathering. Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy making this dish, and watch as it disappears from the table!

This recipe not only provides step-by-step instructions but also encourages visitors to engage with tips and customization ideas, enhancing their cooking experience. Enjoy!

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