Smoky BBQ Beasty Macaroni Cheese

25 Aug, 2026

Macaroni cheese may not be the first dish you think of for a barbecue blend, but it works wonderfully. Our BBQ Beasty Spice Blend adds smoky savoury depth to the creamy sauce without making it fiery.

Serve it as a generous barbecue side or make it the main event with a sharp green salad. The crisp breadcrumb topping gives welcome contrast to the soft pasta underneath.

🧾 Ingredients

300g macaroni
50g unsalted butter
50g plain flour
750ml semi-skimmed milk
1½ tbsp BBQ Beasty Spice Blend
1 tsp Dijon mustard
250g mature Cheddar, grated
60g coarse fresh breadcrumbs
25g Parmesan or extra Cheddar, finely grated
Green salad, to serve

🍴 Instructions

Heat the oven to 200°C fan. Cook the macaroni for 2 minutes less than the packet instructions, then drain.
Melt the butter in a saucepan. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the milk. Simmer gently for 4–5 minutes, stirring, until thickened.
Stir in the BBQ Beasty Spice Blend, mustard and mature Cheddar. Remove from the heat once smooth.
Fold in the macaroni and spoon into a medium baking dish.
Mix the breadcrumbs with the Parmesan or extra Cheddar, scatter over the top and bake for 18–22 minutes until bubbling and golden. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

⏱️ Timings

Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes
Serves: 4–6

🥗 Serving Suggestions

Serve beside grilled chicken, ribs or vegetable skewers, or enjoy as a comforting main course with a crisp green salad.

💛 Why This Recipe Works

Slightly undercooking the pasta prevents it becoming soft in the oven. The smoky blend balances the rich cheese sauce and makes an everyday classic feel new.

🛒 Get the Blend

Make this recipe with our BBQ Beasty Spice Blend.

🔥 More BBQ Beasty Recipes

Shop BBQ Beasty Spice Blend →

Explore all Spice & Dipity recipes →

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