Introduction
I still remember the first time I tasted mac and cheese at Mission BBQ. It wasn’t just pasta and cheese — it was rich, creamy, and deeply comforting. One spoonful took me right back to Sunday family dinners. And as a chef, I immediately knew… I had to recreate this homemade recipe!
» After testing different cheese blends, cream ratios, and cooking methods, I finally nailed a copycat version that tastes incredibly close to the original.
» Fun fact: Mac and cheese consistently ranks among America’s top five comfort foods. And honestly? I understand why. When made properly, it’s warm, creamy, and satisfying in a way few dishes can match.
Today, I’m sharing this copycat Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe 2026 with simple steps, real ingredients, and chef-tested tips.
So let’s get cooking!
👉 What Is Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese?
» Mission BBQ mac and cheese is a Southern-style creamy pasta side dish served alongside smoked meats like brisket and pulled pork at the Mission BBQ chain.
» Unlike dry or heavily baked versions, this mac and cheese is soft, scoopable, and extra creamy. The sauce is thick but silky, coating every piece of elbow macaroni evenly. It’s not overloaded with spices — the flavor focus is on real cheese, butter, and cream.
» What makes it stand out is its balance. It’s rich without being overwhelming. Cheesy without being greasy. Simple, yet incredibly satisfying.
👉 Kitchen Tools Required For Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe
You don’t need fancy tools for this copycat Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese recipe 2026. Just simple kitchen basics:
» Measuring cups and spoons
» Large pot (for boiling pasta)
» Colander (for draining pasta)
» Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
» Whisk (very important for smooth sauce)
» Cheese grater (for freshly shredded cheese)
» Heavy-bottom saucepan (for cheese sauce)
» Baking dish (optional, if baking)
👨🍳 Chef Tip:
A heavy-bottom pan prevents the cheese sauce from burning at the bottom.
Ingredients for Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe
Simple ingredients. Big flavor.
👉 Main Ingredients
♥ 1 pound elbow macaroni (or cavatappi)
♥ 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
♥ 1 cup mild cheddar or Colby Jack
♥ 2 cups whole milk
♥ 1 cup heavy cream
♥ 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
♥ 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
♥ 1 teaspoon salt
♥ ½ teaspoon black pepper
👉 Optional Flavor Boosters
♥ ½ teaspoon garlic powder
♥ ½ teaspoon mustard powder
♥ 2 ounces cream cheese (for extra creaminess)
♥ A pinch of paprika
👨🍳 Chef Tip:
Always shred cheese yourself.
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How to Make Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe 2026
Making the perfect Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe 2026 isn’t complicated — but it does require attention and a little love. I always tell my students: creamy mac and cheese is about control, not speed. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll get that smooth, rich texture every time.
🍽️ Servings: 6 servings
⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 20 minutes
⏳ Resting Time: 5 minutes
⏰ Total Time: 40 minutes
💰 Estimated Cost: $8–$12 Approx.
👉 Step 1: Boil the Pasta Properly
♥ First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente
♥ (usually 1 minute less than package instructions).
♥ Drain immediately and do not rinse.
👨🍳 Chef Tip:
Slightly undercooking the pasta prevents it from becoming mushy once mixed with the hot cheese sauce.
👉 Step 2: Make a Smooth Roux Base
♥ Now, in a saucepan, melt butter over a medium flame.
♥ Once melted, add flour and whisk continuously for about 1–2 minutes until smooth and lightly golden.
♥ It should look like a thick paste.
👨🍳 Chef Tip:
Keep whisking to avoid lumps. This roux is what gives your mac and cheese that signature thickness.
👉 Step 3: Slowly Add Milk & Cream
♥ Gradually pour in warm milk while whisking constantly.
♥ Then add heavy cream. Stir consistently for at least 2 minutes until you have a thick, soft mixture.
♥ Avoid rushing this step.
♥ Adding milk slowly prevents clumps and ensures a silky base.
👉 Step 4: Melt the Cheese Gently
♥ Lower the heat to low.
♥ Add freshly shredded cheese in small handfuls, stirring after each addition until fully melted before adding more.
♥ This keeps the sauce smooth and glossy.
♥ Never boil the sauce after adding cheese. High heat causes separation and a grainy texture.
👉 Step 5: Season & Combine the Pasta
♥ Add salt, black pepper, and optional seasonings like garlic powder or mustard powder. Taste and adjust if needed.
♥ Fold in the cooked pasta and stir gently until every piece is coated in creamy cheese sauce.
♥ If the sauce feels too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of warm milk to loosen it.
👉 Step 6: Optional Bake or Rest Before Serving
♥ For a slightly firmer texture, transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
♥ If serving stovetop-style, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. The sauce thickens naturally as it sits.
♥ Resting time improves texture. Don’t skip it — patience makes it perfect.
Follow these six steps carefully, and you’ll have a creamy, rich, restaurant-style mac and cheese that tastes just like Mission BBQ— maybe even better. 🧀🔥
Ingredients Substitutes For Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe
| Original Ingredient | Substitute Option | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | Cavatappi, penne, shells | Shells hold sauce very well |
| Sharp cheddar | Mild cheddar | Less sharp flavor |
| Colby Jack | Monterey Jack | Smooth melting |
| Heavy cream | Half-and-half | Slightly lighter texture |
| Whole milk | 2% milk | Less rich but still creamy |
| Butter | Margarine | Works, but flavor slightly changes |
| All-purpose flour | Cornstarch slurry | Use 1 tbsp cornstarch + water |
| Cream cheese | Sour cream | Adds tangy creaminess |
These swaps keep the recipe flexible while maintaining flavor.
👉 Healthy Ingredient Swaps
If you want to lighten it up without losing comfort:
» Use reduced-fat cheddar
» Use 2% milk instead of whole milk
» Replace half the cream with milk
» Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber
» Add steamed cauliflower mixed into pasta
» Reduce the cheese slightly and add a little Greek yogurt
👨🍳 I sometimes mix in pureed butternut squash. It adds creaminess naturally and boosts nutrition!
Best Cheese Combinations for Authentic BBQ Flavor
If you want to experiment, try these blends:
Sharp Cheddar + Colby Jack
Cheddar + Monterey Jack
Cheddar + Gouda (adds subtle smokiness)
Cheddar + a small amount of Velveeta (for ultra-smooth texture)
Is Mission BBQ’s mac and cheese baked?
It’s primarily creamy stovetop style. Some locations lightly bake it, but it remains soft and smooth.
High-fat cheese melts better and creates that signature BBQ side dish feel.
Visual Instruction For Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese
Tips for the Perfect Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe
Over the years, I’ve learned these small tricks make a big difference. Here’s how I ensure it turns out perfect every time:
» Don’t skip the roux
» Use freshly shredded cheese
» Add cheese slowly in batches
» Mix two or three cheeses for depth
» Add a splash of milk when reheating
» Always cook pasta just until al dente
» Lower the heat before adding cheese
» Whisk continuously when adding milk
» Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving
» Taste and adjust the seasoning at the end
» The goal? Creamy. Smooth. Velvety. Not grainy.
The biggest mistake?
High heat. Cheese separates when overheated. Gentle cooking wins!
👉 Variations & Optional Add-Ins
Want to make it your own? Try these ideas:
Protein Add-Ins
♥ Crispy bacon bits
♥ Shredded BBQ chicken
♥ Smoked brisket pieces
♥ Pulled pork
Flavor Boosters
♥ Jalapeños (for spice)
♥ Smoked paprika
♥ Garlic butter
♥ Caramelized onions
♥ A dash of hot sauce
Crunchy Topping (Optional)
♥ Buttered breadcrumbs
♥ Crushed crackers
♥ Parmesan cheese
👉 Garnish & Presentation Tips
We eat with our eyes first!
» Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley
» Add a light dusting of paprika
» Top with crispy bacon bits
» Serve in a cast-iron skillet for BBQ style
» Use white bowls to highlight the golden cheese color
👨🍳 For gatherings, I serve it in a rustic baking dish. It gives that authentic Southern BBQ look.
👉 Storage, Reheating & Make Ahead Tips
Storage:
» Store in an airtight container.
» Refrigerate up to 4 days.
Reheating:
» Add 2–3 tablespoons of milk.
» Reheat gently on the stovetop.
» Stir continuously for a smooth texture.
Freezing:
» Freeze up to 2 months.
» Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
👨🍳 Personally, I prefer fresh or refrigerated over frozen — cream-based sauces taste best freshly made.
What to Serve with Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Side
This creamy copycat Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe pairs beautifully with:
» Smoked brisket
» BBQ ribs
» Cornbread
» Coleslaw
» Baked beans
» Roasted vegetables
» Grilled chicken thighs
» Pulled pork sandwiches
The creamy texture balances smoky and spicy BBQ flavors perfectly.
Best Alternate Recipes to Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese
If you love this Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese recipe 2026, you may also enjoy these too:
» Lobster Mac and Cheese
» Creamy Alfredo Pasta Bake
» Crockpot Mac and Cheese
» Three Cheese Stovetop Mac
» Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese
» Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
» Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
» Yard House Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Each one offers a slightly different twist while keeping that comforting, cheesy base.
Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe Nutrition Facts
(Estimated per 1 cup serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Protein | 16 g |
| Total Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16 g |
| Cholesterol | 85 mg |
| Sodium | 520 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
⚠️ Values may vary depending on cheese type and portion size.
Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a pan, melt butter on medium flame, add flour & whisk to foam roux.
- Add milk & cream and mix gently until you get thick paste.
- Now, lower the flame, add shredded cheese & stir until smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Mix in cooked pasta until fully coated. Rest 5 minutes before serving or bake briefly for a firmer top.
Notes
- Always shred cheese fresh for the smoothest sauce.
- Keep heat low when melting cheese to prevent grainy texture.
- Add a splash of milk when reheating leftovers.
- Letting the mac and cheese rest before serving improves thickness and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make it extra creamy?
For extra creaminess, add a small amount of cream cheese or increase the heavy cream slightly. Stir continuously while melting cheese and keep the heat low to maintain a smooth, silky texture.
What seasoning does Mission BBQ use?
Mission BBQ keeps it simple. The base seasoning usually includes salt, black pepper, and sometimes a touch of garlic powder or mustard powder. The focus is on highlighting the natural flavor of the cheese rather than overpowering it.
What’s in Mission BBQ mac and cheese?
Mission BBQ mac and cheese typically includes elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, milk, cream, butter, and flour to create a thick, creamy cheese sauce. It’s smooth, rich, and mildly seasoned to complement smoky barbecue meats perfectly.
What is the best cheese blend for this recipe?
A mix of sharp cheddar and Colby Jack works beautifully. Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, while Colby Jack creates smoothness. Some people also add a small amount of Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
What pasta works best besides elbow macaroni?
Cavatappi, shells, or small penne are great alternatives. These shapes hold cheese sauce well and give a slightly different texture while still keeping the dish rich and satisfying.
What is the secret to the best macaroni and cheese?
The secret is using freshly shredded cheese, cooking on low heat, and making a proper butter-and-flour roux. Melt the cheese slowly and never overheat it. Patience and quality ingredients make the biggest difference in texture and flavor.
Is Mission BBQ’s mac and cheese recipe baked or stovetop style?
It’s primarily creamy stovetop style. Some locations may lightly bake it for structure, but it stays soft and smooth rather than dry or crumbly like traditional baked mac and cheese.
My Final Thoughts as a Chef
Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese Recipe 2026 is more than just a side dish. It’s comfort. It’s warmth. It’s the kind of food that brings people back for seconds.
» As a chef, I believe the secret lies in balance — good cheese, proper heat, and patience. When you take your time and follow the technique, you’ll get that rich, creamy texture that makes this dish unforgettable.
» So grab your pot, shred that cheese, and bring restaurant-quality comfort food into your own kitchen. Once you make it from scratch, you may never go back to boxed versions again.
Now, if you have any thoughts or suggestions about this recipe, write to me in the comment section below. or may be you can also try some of my favourite recipes on my blog here! I’d love to hear from you! Till then,
Happy cooking!
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