BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese: A Gooey Delight!

Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with the ultimate crowd-pleaser: Ooey Gooey BBQ Bacon Mac! This mouthwatering dish brings together the best of both worlds – tender noodles, smoky barbecue beef, creamy cheese sauce, and layers of melty goodness, all in one irresistible lasagna. Whether you’re hosting a birthday bash or just craving a cozy family dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!

I still remember the first time I made this BBQ bacon mac lasagna for my brother’s birthday – the ooey gooey goodness had us all digging in eagerly, and not a single bite was left behind. It’s the kind of dish that sparks joy and brings smiles to everyone around the table. From potlucks to casual weeknight dinners, this recipe has earned a reputation as the ultimate comfort food favorite that never disappoints.

With a few simple tweaks and substitutions, like using ground turkey or swapping in different cheeses, you can easily customize this dish to suit your preferences. And don’t be afraid to get creative with add-ins like grilled corn, roasted squash, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or save some for later, this Ooey Gooey BBQ Bacon Mac is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!

Quick Benefits

• Perfect comfort food mashup combining tender noodles, smoky barbecue beef, and creamy cheese sauce
• Versatile recipe that can be customized with different types of meat, cheese, and even gluten-free noodles
• Great make-ahead dish for gatherings, potlucks, and weeknight dinners, with easy storage and reheating options
• Adaptable for different seasons with suggested additions like grilled corn, roasted squash, or pumpkin puree

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese: A Gooey Delight! Recipe

• Perfect comfort food dish for gatherings, potlucks, birthdays, or a cozy family dinner
• Mouthwatering combination of tender noodles, smoky barbecue beef, and creamy cheese sauce
• Receives rave reviews from picky eaters and guests alike
• Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to two months
• Versatile recipe – swap meats, cheeses, and noodles to suit preferences and dietary needs
• Offers a surprising twist with layers of gooey cheese, making it a standout dish
• Easy to serve as a main course with sides or as party appetizers in mini portions
• Adaptable to seasonal variations by adding ingredients like grilled corn in summer or pumpkin in fall
• Provides a balance of flavors and textures that make every bite a delightful experience
• Delivers a silky texture by gradually whisking milk into the roux before adding cheese

Ingredients for BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese: A Gooey Delight!

Pasta

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 8 lasagna noodles

Sauce and Cheese

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Meat Filling

• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 pound ground beef

Seasonings and Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt

Pro Tips for BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese: A Gooey Delight!

For the best results with this ooey gooey BBQ bacon mac recipe, consider making the dish ahead of time as the flavors meld together even more deliciously. To make it a day in advance, assemble the layers and refrigerate, baking it just before serving. This is a great time-saving tip for busy days or when hosting gatherings.

Experiment with different variations of this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian twist. You can also swap out cheeses like smoked gouda or Monterey Jack to customize the flavor profile. Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!

When reheating leftovers, make sure to do so thoroughly to enjoy the ooey gooey goodness just like when it was freshly made. Whether you’re enjoying it as a weeknight meal or at a potluck, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

How to Make BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese: A Gooey Delight!

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare Elbow Macaroni

Cook elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Meat Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sauté chopped onion until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Brown ground beef, breaking it up, until fully cooked. Stir in barbecue sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Prepare Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour to make a roux and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in whole milk until smooth. Cook until slightly thickened, then stir in salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Combine Cheese and Macaroni

Stir shredded cheddar and half of the mozzarella into the warm sauce until melted and smooth. Mix in cooked macaroni until coated.

Step 6: Cook Lasagna Noodles

Cook lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente, then drain and lay them flat to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Layer Ingredients

1. Grease a 9 x 13-inch (23 x 33 cm) baking dish. Layer 4 lasagna noodles, half of the meat mixture, half of the macaroni and cheese, and 1 cup mozzarella. Repeat layering with remaining noodles, meat, macaroni and cheese, and mozzarella.

Step 8: Bake Covered

Place foil over dish and bake for 25 minutes.

Step 9: Finish Baking Uncovered

Uncover and bake for an extra 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 10: Rest and Garnish

Let it sit for a few minutes before cutting. Top with chopped parsley and serve while warm.

Storage Tips

Once the ooey gooey BBQ bacon mac cheese lasagna has cooled, slice and store the pieces in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain moisture, press plastic wrap against the surface of the dish. For longer storage, tightly wrap the lasagna and freeze for up to two months. Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge before reheating, covered with foil to trap moisture and heat evenly.

For variations, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a lighter meat option, or try smoked gouda or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile. Gluten-free lasagna noodles can be substituted for those with sensitivities. To enhance the dish, consider serving it with a crisp green salad and tangy vinaigrette or pairing it with roasted vegetables and garlic bread for a comforting meal. You can also transform the recipe with seasonal additions like grilled corn in summer or roasted butternut squash in fall.

To prepare ahead, assemble the lasagna in a disposable pan without baking, then tightly wrap it with foil and freeze for up to two months. When ready to bake from frozen, place the covered dish in a 180-degree oven for thirty to forty minutes before uncovering to brown the top. This versatile dish is a hit at potlucks, family gatherings, and cozy nights in, offering a delightful surprise with its gooey cheese layers and comforting flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make this dish a bit lighter, you can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, consider using plant-based crumbles. These alternatives will provide a different flavor profile while still maintaining the heartiness of the dish.

For a change in the cheese combination, you can experiment with smoked gouda or Monterey Jack in place of or in addition to the cheddar and mozzarella. These cheese varieties will add a unique twist to the dish and can complement the barbecue flavors beautifully.

If you have dietary restrictions, gluten-free lasagna noodles can be used to make this recipe suitable for those with sensitivities. Additionally, if you find yourself short on cheese, incorporating a spoonful of Greek yogurt into the cheese sauce can enhance the creaminess of the dish. These substitutions allow for flexibility in ingredients while still achieving a delicious and satisfying result.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of this delicious ooey gooey BBQ bacon mac cheese lasagna, consider serving it in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits and a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce for added flavor. Pair it with a refreshing coleslaw salad on the side to cut through the richness and add a crunchy texture to the meal.

For a fun twist on traditional lasagna, try layering this BBQ bacon mac creation between slices of toasted garlic bread for a decadent sandwich experience. Cut into smaller portions for a delightful appetizer at your next gathering or game day party. The combination of creamy cheese, smoky barbecue flavors, and crispy bacon nestled between garlic bread slices is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a unique way to enjoy this comfort food classic.

FAQs for BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese: A Gooey Delight!

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken may be used for a lighter option, or use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.

How long can I store leftovers?

Allow to cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I prepare the lasagna ahead of time?

You can assemble the layers up to one day ahead and bake just before serving. Add a few extra minutes to baking time if chilled.

Can I freeze this lasagna?

Yes, freeze cooled portions tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat until hot and bubbly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ooey Gooey BBQ Bacon Mac is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that never fails to impress. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, attending a potluck, or simply craving a comforting meal at home, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. With its rich flavors, gooey cheese, and savory barbecue twist, it’s a true standout on any table.

Don’t hesitate to customize this dish to your liking by trying different protein options, cheese variations, or seasonal additions. The beauty of this Ooey Gooey BBQ Bacon Mac lies in its adaptability and ability to suit different tastes and occasions. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and savor every delicious bite of this indulgent lasagna. Your taste buds will thank you!