Macaroni and Cheese (Dinosaur BBQ) Recipe

If you’re a fan of comfort food like me, you’ll love this tantalizingly delicious and easy-to-make macaroni and cheese recipe from Dinosaur BBQ. With its creamy texture, tender elbow macaroni, and a medley of savory cheeses, this recipe will transport you back to childhood. But it’s the addition of Dinosaur BBQ sauce that sets this Mac & Cheese apart from the rest – giving that tangy, smoky flavor that’ll have you beaming with flavor from ear to ear.

Dinosaur BBQ is a famous chain of barbecue restaurants that originated in Harlem, New York City. This recipe epitomizes their barbecue passion and flavors; it’s the perfect side dish for your next backyard barbecue party, holiday gathering or potluck. You can also make it on a lazy weekend when you’re craving some warm comfort food. Trust me – every time I serve this dish, my guests always ask for seconds and always want to know my secret!

So what are we waiting for? Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this amazing recipe from none other than Dinosaur Barbecue!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Macaroni and Cheese (Dinosaur BBQ)
Macaroni and Cheese (Dinosaur BBQ)

This macaroni and cheese recipe from Dinosaur Barbecue is not like any ordinary recipe you’ve tasted before. It’s a fantastic combination of creamy, cheesy, and tangy flavors that will tickle your taste buds in a very delightful way.

First off, the recipe calls for a blend of three types of cheese – American cheese, colby cheese, and sharp cheddar cheese – that are shredded and mixed with a half-and-half cream sauce to achieve a rich and velvety texture. This combination of cheeses is unique in itself, creating a wonderfully balanced flavor profile.

But what truly sets this mac and cheese apart is its secret ingredients: white vinegar, yellow mustard, sugar, lemon pepper, Tabasco sauce, and pecorino romano cheese. The combination of these ingredients elevates the dish to a whole new level by creating a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Plus, the recipe uses elbow macaroni, which is the perfect shape to hold all the cheesy goodness in every bite. And if you’re into spicy food, this mac and cheese packs some kick thanks to the addition of Tabasco sauce.

Overall, if you’re a fan of comfort food with unexpected twists and turns in flavor, then you’ll absolutely love this Dinosaur BBQ macaroni and cheese recipe. Its unique blend of rich cheeses combined with tangy spices will leave you craving for more.

Ingredient List

 Creamy, dreamy, mac and cheesy goodness
Creamy, dreamy, mac and cheesy goodness

Before we get to the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients that you’ll need. This macaroni and cheese recipe from Dinosaur BBQ is sure to satisfy your cravings for comfort food while providing a unique twist you won’t find in other recipes. Here’s what you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
  • 4 ounces of flour (about 3 cups)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 cups of half-and-half
  • 1 cup of water
  • 1 tablespoon of white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon of Tabasco sauce

Cheeses

  • 1 cup of shredded Pecorino Romano cheese
  • 2 cups of shredded American cheese
  • 2 cups of shredded Colby cheese
  • 2 cups of shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

Vegetables

  • 4 cups of diced onions (about two large onions)
  • 4 cups of diced green pepper (about two green peppers)
  • 4 ounces of chopped garlic (about four cloves)

Oil

  • 1/2 cup of vegetable oil

This may seem like a lot, but trust me – every ingredient plays a role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture in this dish. So make sure you have everything on hand before starting!

The Recipe How-To

Now it’s time to get down to business and cook up some delicious mac and cheese! Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering dish that will have your guests begging for the recipe.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 cups half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 cups onions, diced
  • 1 cup green pepper, diced
  • 4 ounces chopped garlic
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
  • 2 cups shredded Colby cheese
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded American cheese
  • 1 cup grated pecorino romano cheese

Steps

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil over high heat. Add macaroni and salt; cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  3. In another pot, heat half-and-half over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
  4. In a separate large pot, make the roux by whisking together the flour and vegetable oil over medium heat until smooth and golden brown.
  5. Add diced onions, green pepper, and garlic to the roux; sauté until the onions are translucent and tender.
  6. Whisk in the sugar, vinegar, yellow mustard, lemon pepper, Tabasco sauce, and hot half-and-half into the roux mixture; keep stirring until it starts to thicken.
  7. Add Colby, sharp cheddar, American cheese, and pecorino romano cheese; turn off heat; stir until melted and combined.
  8. Add cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce mixture; stir well.
  9. Transfer the mixture into an oven-safe baking dish; bake for about 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
  10. Let cool slightly before serving.

Voila! Your Dinosaur BBQ-style Macaroni and Cheese masterpiece is now complete. Serve this up at your next barbeque or gathering for a crowd-pleasing side dish that will leave everyone satisfied.

Substitutions and Variations

 A bowl of ooey-gooey delight
A bowl of ooey-gooey delight

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are many ways to put your own unique spin on Dinosaur BBQ’s Mac and Cheese recipe. For example, try adding diced smoked sausage or bacon for a meaty twist. You could also mix in some chopped broccoli or other vegetables to give it a healthy kick.

For a spicier version, add more Tabasco sauce and white vinegar. And if you prefer your mac and cheese with a tangy flavor, try swapping the yellow mustard for Dijon mustard or even horseradish.

For those looking to make this recipe more health-conscious, consider using whole wheat elbow macaroni, low-fat cheese varieties or even vegan cheese alternatives. You can also swap the half-and-half for almond milk or coconut milk to create a lactose-free option.

No matter how you choose to customize this recipe to suit your preferences, one thing is certain – the creamy goodness of this classic mac and cheese dish will remain the star of the show. So get creative and make it your own!

Serving and Pairing

 The ultimate comfort food: mac and cheese
The ultimate comfort food: mac and cheese

Serving this Dinosaur BBQ Mac and Cheese perfection is a joyous occasion for any BBQ lover, and it’s an ideal side dish or even main course for your next backyard gathering. I recommend serving the macaroni hot and fresh out of the oven to get that melty, gooey texture we all crave.

This dish pairs well with tangy BBQ chicken or ribs, but it can also stand alone as a meal on its own. The sharp cheddar and American cheese blends with the creamy half-and-half to create a rich, satisfying flavor that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with whatever strikes your fancy.

If you’re looking for sides to complement this delicious recipe, try some coleslaw or baked beans to give your plate the perfect balance of flavors. This mac and cheese recipe is truly versatile, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different pairings. You won’t regret it!

As a finishing touch, I recommend garnishing your mac and cheese with a sprinkle of pecorino romano cheese along with some chopped green onion for color and zest. With these toppings, your dish will be both visually appealing and packed full of flavor.

So whether you’re hosting a barbeque party for friends or just having dinner with family, this Dinosaur BBQ Mac and Cheese recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 Satisfy your cravings with this forkful of heaven
Satisfy your cravings with this forkful of heaven

Once you’ve made this Dinosaur BBQ mac and cheese recipe, you may find yourself with some leftovers. Luckily for you, this dish can be easily stored and reheated for later enjoyment.

To store your leftover mac and cheese, make sure it is properly cooled before placing it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to store it longer, place the container in the freezer for up to two months.

When reheating your mac and cheese, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure the best results. If it was frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The best way to reheat mac and cheese is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cover your mac and cheese with foil. Bake until heated through – this should take around 20-30 minutes if it was refrigerated or around 45-60 minutes if it was frozen.

If you’re looking for a quicker way to reheat your mac and cheese, you can use the microwave. Place your dish in a microwave-safe container and heat on high for one minute. Stir the mac and cheese and heat again in 30 second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature.

One thing to note is that when reheated, the texture of the macaroni may become slightly softer than when freshly made. Don’t worry – this doesn’t compromise its flavor at all! However, if you’re reheating it for a large crowd or special occasion, consider adding a little bit of extra half-and-half or milk to bring back its original creaminess.

With these helpful tips on how to store and reheat this delicious dinosaur BBQ mac and cheese recipe, you can enjoy its flavorful cheesy goodness again at any time without losing any of its delicious flavor!

Tips for Perfect Results

 Indulgent, creamy, and oh-so-delicious
Indulgent, creamy, and oh-so-delicious

To achieve a cheesy and flavorful Dinosaur BBQ Mac and Cheese, you must pay attention to the details. In this section, I will share with you some tips that can help you make the perfect mac and cheese ever.

One of the crucial things to remember when making mac and cheese is not to overcook it. Overcooking the macaroni leads to mushy pasta that doesn’t hold up well in the cheese sauce. It is best to cook it al dente, about 8-10 minutes. To achieve this, boil the macaroni in salted water and keep checking it after 5 minutes.

Another tip for an excellent mac and cheese is not to forget the garlic, green pepper, and onions as they add layers of flavors to the dish. Sautéing them in vegetable oil until golden adds an extra depth of sweetness that remarkably complements the tanginess of pecorino romano cheese.

When adding flour to thicken the sauce, make sure you whisk it continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. The flour should be cooked for a minute or two before adding half-and-half or milk. Whisk the sauce for approximately five minutes until it thickens.

Furthermore, when adding cheese to your sauce, use freshly grated cheeses instead of pre-shredded ones as they melt better than store-bought cheeses.

Lastly, add a few drops of Tabasco sauce or Harissa if you like a little bit of heat in your mac and cheese. Adding these sauces lifts up the flavor profile of the dish, elevating your palate experience.

By following these tips, I assure you that your Dinosaur BBQ Mac and Cheese will be a crowd favorite at any gathering.

FAQ

As you read through the recipe instructions and tips, it’s common to have some questions in your mind. This FAQ section will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this dinosaur BBQ mac and cheese recipe to help guide you and ensure that you achieve an amazing and flavorful result. So, let’s dive into the most commonly asked questions about this cheesy, gooey goodness!

What is the best cheese for mac and cheese?

When it comes to adding cheese to barbecue recipes, there are a multitude of classics that work well. Gouda, Muenster, Parmesan, fontina, Havarti, and Monterey Jack are all excellent options. However, one of the all-time greats is Gruyere. It’s similar to Cheddar in its melting ability, but boasts a delightful nutty flavor that takes dishes to the next level. Another popular choice is Brie, but it’s important to remember to remove the rind before incorporating it into your dish.

How many calories are in a dinosaur BBQ mac and cheese?

I have generated a health review for a user who added the dish “Mac and Cheese Dinosaur BBQ”. The review includes information on its calorie count, nutrition grade, problematic ingredients, and other relevant details.

Who is Mc Dinosaur BBQ?

In recent Instagram Story videos, Benny referred to Gibbs as “MC Dinosaur Barbecue” and recounted a previous altercation between Gibbs and Benny’s team at a Buffalo restaurant. The incident occurred back in May.

When did Dinosaur BBQ open in Buffalo?

Dinosaur’s bar-b-que has received national praise and recognition since the opening of its first location in Syracuse, NY, in 1988. Over the years, the restaurant has expanded to six more locations across New York, including Rochester, Harlem, Troy, Brooklyn and Buffalo at different times.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, the Dinosaur BBQ’s Macaroni and Cheese recipe is an irresistible and mouth-watering dish that will leave you craving for more. With a perfect blend of three types of cheese, pecorino romano, American cheese, colby cheese, and sharp cheddar cheese, along with some essential ingredients like elbow macaroni, garlic, green peppers, and onions, this dish is an absolute game-changer for all pasta lovers.

This recipe article has provided you with detailed instructions on how to prepare this dish with perfection. Moreover, it has also given you tips and recommendations on how to make substitutions and variations and how to handle the leftovers for a great dining experience.

With its tangy flavor of Tabasco sauce, white vinegar, yellow mustard, sugar, lemon pepper, kosher salt, and other spices that blend so well together to create a unique taste that is second to none. The addition of the Dinosaur Barbecue sauce makes this recipe stand out from any other mac and cheese dishes you’ve ever tasted.

If you are planning an outdoor event or hosting a BBQ party at your house, the Dinosaur BBQ’s Macaroni and Cheese recipe will be an excellent choice as it compliments perfectly dishes such as barbeque chicken, ribs or brisket.

So don’t hesitate to try out this fantastic recipe. Trust me; it will be the highlight of every event!

Macaroni and Cheese (Dinosaur BBQ)

Macaroni and Cheese (Dinosaur BBQ) Recipe

It does NOT get better than this. This is SUPER rich and cheesy. Not for the faint of heart! Dinosaur BBQ’s mac and cheese has been featured on tv and in magazine’s as the best mac and cheese in the country. I think they are right.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Calories 855.5 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 1/2 cups onions, diced
  • 3/4 cup green pepper, diced
  • 1 teaspoon chopped garlic
  • 4 ounces flour
  • 3 cups water
  • 3 cups half-and-half
  • 14 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 5 ounces colby cheese, shredded
  • 10 ounces American cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces pecorino romano cheese, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons lemon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons yellow mustard, French’s
  • 2 teaspoons white vinegar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Tabasco sauce
  • 1 1/2 lbs elbow macaroni
  • 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons pecorino romano cheese

Instructions
 

  • Heat oil in a large pot. Add onions and peppers; cook until they are translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in flour. Add water and half-and-half. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
  • Using an immersion blender, puree this mixture until it is smooth (*if using a regular blender, work in batches, filling the pitcher only half-full, since the liquid will be hot). Slowly add cheeses to warm pureed mixture, making sure all cheese is melted before adding more. Once cheese is completely melted, add salt, lemon pepper, sugar, mustard, vinegar and Tabasco. Stir to combine.
  • Cook 1 1/2 pounds of dried elbow macaroni in boiling water, according to manufacturer’s instructions. Cook until al dente, not completely soft.
  • Combine hot, cooked pasta and sauce in large mixing bowl; stir well to combine. Pour entire mixture into a greased 10-inch-by-12-inch pan (or a 9-inch-by-13-inch one). Top with 8 ounces. of shredded cheddar cheese and 2 tablespoons of Pecorino Romano cheese.
  • Place under broiler until top is golden brown and bubbling. Serve immediately.

YOUR OWN NOTE

Nutrition

Serving: 390gCalories: 855.5kcalCarbohydrates: 69.9gProtein: 35.2gFat: 48.3gSaturated Fat: 24.4gCholesterol: 112.2mgSodium: 973.3mgFiber: 3.1gSugar: 4.1g
Keyword < 60 Mins, Cheese, Easy, From Scratch, Kid-Friendly, Kosher, Weeknight
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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Shara

Shara @The Bird BBQ

Shara loves to experiment with different flavors and techniques when it comes to BBQ. She has been perfecting her craft for years and loves hosting backyard BBQs with friends & family. She often comes up with creative recipes that her guests rave about.