Mac & Cheese on the Barbecue

Mac & Cheese is one of the greatest classics of American side dishes. Often reduced to its simplest form (just macaroni and cheese), it can actually be turned into something truly delicious. Here’s my version of BBQ mac & cheese, inspired by an American friend, that really brings it to the next level!
For the veggie version, simply leave out the bacon.

This mac and cheese on the barbecue is a true Texan-style comfort dish. Combining cheddar, Gruyère, Comté, Parmesan, crispy bacon, and a creamy sauce, all baked over direct heat, this version of BBQ mac & cheese is the perfect side for ribs or pulled pork. Its barbecue cooking method gives it an unmatched smoky touch. Easy to prepare and spectacular to serve, this dish is a must-have in the American BBQ repertoire. Search for: BBQ mac & cheese recipe, smoked mac & cheese, Texan mac & cheese.

History of the Recipe

Originating in the Southern United States, mac & cheese is an emblematic comfort food. Once brought to Texas, the recipe was adapted to BBQ culture: cooked in a cast iron pot on the grill, enriched with bacon and smoked cheeses. The result? A rich, golden, flavor-packed explosion.

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep: 15 minutes
• Cook: 35 minutes
• Total: 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 500 g macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar
• 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or Emmental
• 2 slices of Comté
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp classic BBQ rub
• 1 cup shredded cheddar (topping)
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan (topping)
• 4 slices of bacon

Instructions

1. Preheat your BBQ for direct cooking, lid closed, maximum heat.
2. In a cast iron pot, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Add garlic and sauté a few minutes.
3. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, 1 cup cheddar, and Gruyère. Mix until melted.
4. Add mustard and BBQ rub, stir well.
5. Mix the cooked macaroni into the sauce, then transfer to a baking dish.
6. Lower BBQ temp to 200 °C (400 °F).
7. Top with shredded Parmesan, then cheddar.
8. Close the BBQ lid and bake until golden, about 15 minutes.

Serving & Pairings

Serve straight from the cast iron pot for a true “wow” effect. Best paired with ribs, pulled pork, or tangy red cabbage slaw. A bold red wine or smoky brown ale will elevate this Texan BBQ experience.

Healthier Variations

• Gluten-free: use gluten-free macaroni.
• Lighter: replace half the cheese with Greek yogurt and light cream.
• Dairy-free: use plant-based cheese and soy cream.
• Vegetarian: remove bacon, add caramelized onions or grilled mushrooms.

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