Dinosaur BBQ Mac and Cheese is a delicious, cheesy dish that the whole family will love. Mac and Cheese is a staple meal for me, perfect for any occasion. I enjoy experimenting with new twists to the classic dish. One of my favorite recipes is Dinosaur BBQ Mac and Cheese.
In this article, I’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to make this unique and flavorful dish. I’ll also offer some tips for making the perfect mac and cheese, as well as nutrition information. So grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
What is Dinosaur BBQ Mac and Cheese?
Dinosaur BBQ Mac and Cheese is a unique twist on the classic dish, made by Dinosaur BBQ in New York State. It features four types of cheese, Cajun spices, and other flavor-enhancing ingredients to create a rich and creamy macaroni and cheese that’s sure to please.
This dish also has a smoky flavor thanks to the Dinosaur BBQ Cajun Foreplay Spice Rub, which adds a nice kick.
What does it taste like?
Dinosaur BBQ Mac and Cheese has a rich, creamy flavor thanks to the combination of four delicious cheeses. The Cajun spices provide a smoky flavor that adds depth to the dish, while the lemon pepper, sugar, yellow mustard, white vinegar, and Tabasco sauce add subtle sweetness and tanginess.
This combination of flavors creates a unique and delicious mac and cheese that is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
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How did I first get introduced to the Dinosaur BBQ Mac and Cheese?
I first tried Dinosaur BBQ Mac and Cheese at the New York State Fair in 2016. I was instantly hooked on the combination of flavors. I searched for the recipe online and found that the restaurant had published it.
After making it a few times, I tweaked the recipe to make my own version that I loved even more. I’ve been making this recipe ever since, always to rave reviews from my family and friends.
How to make Dinosaur BBQ Mac and Cheese?
Making Dinosaur BBQ Mac and Cheese is easy and only requires a few simple ingredients & step-by-step instructions:
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: this type of pasta is a great base for macaroni and cheese.
- Onions: the onions add a savory flavor and texture to the dish.
- Green peppers: this vegetable adds crunchiness and nutrition to the dish.
- Garlic: garlic provides an intense flavor that compliments the other ingredients in this recipe.
- All-purpose flour: this ingredient helps thicken the sauce.
- Half-and-half: this dairy product adds a creamy texture to the sauce.
- Water: the water is used to thin out the sauce.
- Sharp cheddar cheese, American cheese, Colby Jack cheese, and Pecorino Romano: these four kinds of cheese create a rich, cheesy flavor.
- Lemon pepper, sugar, yellow mustard, white vinegar, and Tabasco sauce: these ingredients add depth to the flavor profile of the dish.
- Dinosaur BBQ Cajun Foreplay Spice Rub or any Cajun rub or just paprika: this spice gives the macaroni and cheese a smoky flavor.
- Vegetable oil: this ingredient helps prevent the macaroni and cheese from sticking to the pan.
- Salt: salt brings out all of the flavors in this dish.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
Step 2
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, about 9 minutes. Drain in a colander and set aside.
Step 3
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil. Add the onions and green peppers and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Step 4
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the flour has been incorporated.
Step 5
Slowly add in the half-and-half, stirring constantly, until a thick sauce forms. Add in the water, cheddar cheese, American cheese, Colby Jack cheese, Pecorino Romano, lemon pepper, sugar, yellow mustard, white vinegar, and Tabasco sauce. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 6
Add in the cooked macaroni and stir to combine. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with the Dinosaur BBQ Cajun Foreplay Spice Rub or any Cajun rub.
Step 7
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
-If you don’t have the Dinosaur BBQ Cajun Foreplay Spice Rub, you can substitute it with any other Cajun rub or just paprika.
-You can use any combination of cheeses that you like for this recipe – feel free to experiment!
-This dish can be easily doubled to feed a larger crowd.
-For an extra cheesy dish, add more of any of the cheeses listed in the ingredients.
-If you want a creamier dish, add more half-and-half or water until desired consistency is achieved.
Equipment
- Large pot
- 8×8 baking dish
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup onions, diced
- ½ cup green peppers, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups half-and-half
- 1 ½ cups water
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups American Cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Pecorino Romano, shredded
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- ¾ teaspoon Tabasco sauce
- Dinosaur BBQ Cajun Foreplay Spice Rub or any Cajun rub or just paprika
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, about 9 minutes. Drain in a colander and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil. Add the onions and green peppers and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the flour has been incorporated.
- Slowly add in the half-and-half, stirring constantly, until a thick sauce forms. Add in the water, cheddar cheese, American cheese, Colby Jack cheese, Pecorino Romano, lemon pepper, sugar, yellow mustard, white vinegar, and Tabasco sauce. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add in the cooked macaroni and stir to combine. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with the Dinosaur BBQ Cajun Foreplay Spice Rub or any Cajun rub.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition Information
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Protein: 56g
- Fat: 72g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 23g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Potassium: 494mg
- Sodium: 1125mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Cholesterol: 203mg
- Vitamin A: 1988IU
- Vitamin C: 13mg
- Calcium: 1332mg
- Iron: 3mg
- Saturated Fat: 41g
- Sugar: 5g
What to serve with Dinosaur BBQ Mac and Cheese?
This mac and cheese goes great with a variety of side dishes. Try some roasted vegetables, baked beans, steamed broccoli, or a simple green salad. It’s also delicious and served with grilled chicken or pork chops.
If you want to turn it into a main course, try adding cooked and crumbled sausage or bacon for added flavor. You can also top the finished dish with crispy fried onions for an extra crunchy finish.
How to store leftover Dinosaur BBQ Mac and Cheese?
Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
This dish also freezes well – place individual servings into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then heat in the oven or microwave.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can eat this dish as long as all of the ingredients are cooked to the recommended temperature and the cheese is pasteurized.
Pregnant women should also be aware that this dish contains a large amount of sodium, so it’s best to limit portion sizes and serve it alongside other nutrient-rich foods. Be sure to consult with your doctor before eating any dish while pregnant.
FAQs
Can this be made vegan?
Yes, this dish can be made vegan by omitting the cheese and substituting it with a plant-based alternative such as nutritional yeast or vegan cream cheese. To replace the half-and-half, use unsweetened almond or soy milk.
You can also add additional seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to give the dish more flavor. For a richer sauce, try adding vegan butter or olive oil.
Finally, omit the Pecorino Romano cheese and replace it with a vegan Parmesan alternative.
Can this be made gluten-free?
Yes, this dish can be made gluten-free by substituting the regular macaroni with a gluten-free variety. Other ingredients such as cheese, half-and-half, seasonings, and spices do not contain any gluten.
To ensure that there is no cross-contamination, check labels when buying any ingredients and make sure that the product is labeled gluten-free. Finally, use a gluten-free Cajun rub or paprika to replace the Dinosaur BBQ Cajun Foreplay Spice Rub.
Following these steps will ensure that this dish is safe for those who are following a gluten-free diet.
Wrapping Up
Dinosaur BBQ Mac and Cheese is an easy and delicious meal that is packed with flavor. Whether served as a main course or as a side dish, this comforting classic will satisfy everyone’s cravings.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this recipe in no time. To make it vegan, or gluten-free, or to add extra flavor, make a few adjustments to the ingredients and cooking method.
Thank you for reading and we hope you enjoy this recipe! Please share this article with your friends and family so they can enjoy this comforting dish too!
Happy Cooking!
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Lori Walker is a passionate dietitian and food lover. She offers simple and nutritious recipes that don't take long to cook. In addition to sharing delicious dishes, she also shares useful advice on saving time and money in the kitchen. She believes that with a bit of creativity, anyone can make healthy meals that won't break the bank. Read more