BBQ Bacon Cheddar Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese

If you’re a fan of bold flavors and classic comfort foods, this BBQ Bacon Cheddar Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese is about to become your new favorite recipe. This dish is a harmonious blend of smoky barbecue, creamy cheddar, crispy bacon, and tangy ranch flavors—all married together to elevate traditional mac and cheese. Imagine every bite packed with savory, smoky goodness complemented by rich, melty cheese. It’s the perfect way to turn a typical weeknight dinner into a memorable meal or impress guests at a gathering.

This mac ‘n’ cheese is ideal for cooler days when you crave something warm and indulgent. It’s also highly customizable; you can use any pasta shape, add extra toppings like green onions, or even make it extra spicy with a dash of hot sauce. This dish is surprisingly simple to make, combining familiar ingredients in a way that’s both creative and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for family or preparing a solo treat, this BBQ Bacon Cheddar Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese is the definition of cozy, satisfying comfort food!

---

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp ranch dressing
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnishes: green onions, extra bacon bits, or crushed crackers

---

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare Bacon: While pasta is cooking, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to cool, then crumble.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux and cook for about 1 minute until golden.
4. Add Milk and Cream: Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, BBQ sauce, and ranch dressing. Season with salt and pepper, stirring until cheeses are melted and sauce is smooth.
6. Combine with Pasta and Bacon: Add the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
7. Serve and Garnish: Spoon into serving dishes, garnish with extra bacon bits, green onions, or crushed crackers as desired.

---

How to Prepare

1. Mise en Place: Prepare all ingredients in advance by cooking the pasta and bacon and measuring out cheese, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and other ingredients.
2. Timing Matters: Begin with pasta and bacon first to streamline prep time.
3. Create the Sauce Gradually: Use medium heat to make the sauce, which prevents cheese from curdling and creates a smooth texture. Whisking continuously will help avoid clumps in the roux.
4. Assemble and Serve: Assemble the pasta and sauce just before serving for best results.

---

Preparation Time

• Active Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

---

Servings

• Serves: 4 hearty portions

---

FAQs

1. Can I make BBQ Bacon Cheddar Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese in advance?
Yes! Prepare the dish up to the final baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it covered at 350°F for 20 minutes or until heated through.

2. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a microwave or cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes. Add a splash of milk to retain creaminess.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Shells, penne, or cavatappi work well as they hold onto the sauce, adding even more flavor to each bite.

4. What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or Gouda are all great substitutes for cheddar, each adding unique flavors to the dish.

5. How can I make this spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra kick!

---

Conclusion

BBQ Bacon Cheddar Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese is a crowd-pleasing, indulgent twist on the classic mac ‘n’ cheese that perfectly balances smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors. This recipe’s versatility allows you to experiment with different toppings, cheeses, or even add a touch of heat for a personalized touch. It’s simple to prepare, taking only 30 minutes to create a dish that tastes like hours of effort went into it. Perfect for family meals, potlucks, or simply as a cozy night in, this mac ‘n’ cheese is comfort food at its best.

Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy macaroni or want to impress guests with a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make, BBQ Bacon Cheddar Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese delivers every time. Prepare for compliments and second servings as this hearty, flavorful dish takes your mac ‘n’ cheese game to the next level!

Print