Is this BBQ Bacon Mac 'n' Cheese Lasagna difficult to make?

No, it's not hard at all! The recipe might seem complex, but it's really simple. I made it easy for everyone to follow. The steps are clear, so you can make this tasty dish without trouble.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can! Replace the bacon with vegetarian bacon like tempeh or mushroom "bacon". Use a strong BBQ sauce and maybe some liquid smoke to keep the smoky taste.

How long will this lasagna keep in the refrigerator?

It stays good for 3-4 days in the fridge. Cool it down first, then cover it well to keep it fresh. This helps keep the lasagna's texture and flavor.

Can I freeze this lasagna?

Yes, it freezes well. Wrap it in plastic wrap and foil. It can last 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge and reheat in the oven for the best taste.

What cheese combinations work best for this recipe?

Use sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan for the best taste. This mix creates a rich, creamy sauce that goes well with BBQ and bacon. Feel free to try different cheeses too!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The basic recipe isn't gluten-free, but you can make it so. Use gluten-free macaroni and choose a gluten-free BBQ sauce. Many brands offer gluten-free options that work great.

What BBQ sauce do you recommend?

Pick a smoky, sweet BBQ sauce that's not too thick. Sweet Baby Ray's or Stubb's are good choices. Look for a sauce that balances sweetness and tanginess well.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can! Assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it and store it in the fridge. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

What are the best side dishes to serve with this lasagna?

Choose light, crisp sides to balance the lasagna's richness. A green salad, coleslaw, roasted veggies, or garlic bread are great choices. They complement the lasagna's flavors well.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add heat with diced jalapeños, spicy BBQ sauce, red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper. You can adjust the spice to your liking.

Ultimate 5-Step Ooey-Gooey BBQ Bacon Mac 'n' Cheese Lasagna

Name: BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Lasagna: Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz elbow macaroni; ½ stick unsalted butter; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 3 cups whole milk; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup shredded Gruyère cheese; 9 slices crispy bacon, crumbled; ½ cup panko bread crumbs; ½ cup BBQ sauce

Description

Ultimate BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Lasagna that combines smoky barbecue flavors with creamy, cheesy pasta layers. This comfort food masterpiece features crispy bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and a blend of premium cheeses for an unforgettable dining experience.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz elbow macaroni

½ stick unsalted butter

¼ cup all-purpose flour

3 cups whole milk

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ cup shredded Gruyère cheese

9 slices crispy bacon, crumbled

½ cup panko bread crumbs

½ cup BBQ sauce

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish

2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente, drain and set aside

3. Cook bacon until crispy, crumble and brush with BBQ sauce, set aside

4. Melt butter in large saucepan over medium heat

5. Whisk in flour to create smooth roux, cook for 1 minute

6. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened

7. Remove from heat and blend in cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyère cheese until melted

8. Fold cooked macaroni into cheese sauce

9. Layer half of mac and cheese in prepared baking dish

10. Sprinkle half of BBQ bacon over mac and cheese

11. Add remaining mac and cheese layer

12. Top with remaining BBQ bacon and panko breadcrumbs

13. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly

14. Let rest 10 minutes before serving

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded

Can be assembled 24 hours ahead and refrigerated before baking

Add 5 minutes to baking time if cooking from cold

Store leftovers in refrigerator for 3-4 days

Reheat in oven at 350°F covered with foil

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 485
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 750mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 65mg