Bojangles Mac and Cheese Recipe

This Bojangles Mac and Cheese recipe is a gem if you really want some creamy, cheesy macaroni – no other way to say it!

You’ll need simple ingredients like elbow macaroni, whole milk, and sharp cheddar.

One trick I always use is letting the cheese sauce thicken a bit before mixing everything together.

For me, I love adding just a hint of garlic and onion powder, which adds a unique depth to the flavor.

How to Make Bojangles Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 8 oz Elbow Macaroni
• 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter
• 2 tbsp All-purpose Flour
• 2 cups Whole Milk
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1 tbsp Grated Romano Cheese
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Boil a large pot of water and add a tablespoon of sea salt.

Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente according to the package instructions.

Drain and set aside.

Step 2:

In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.

Add the all-purpose flour and stir continuously to create a smooth paste.

Cook for about two minutes, until it’s bubbling.

Step 3:

Gradually whisk in the whole milk to create a thick sauce without lumps.

Add garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.

Continue stirring until the sauce is creamy.

Step 4:

Reduce the heat to low and mix in the grated Romano cheese and cheddar cheese.

Stir well until the cheese is fully melted.

Step 5:

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and combine thoroughly.

Simmer for about five minutes.

Serve and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Cheese:

Freshly shredded cheddar cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.

I find it gives a smoother texture that’s ideal for this dish.

Control the Pasta Texture:

If you prefer a slightly firmer mac and cheese, reduce the cooking time by a minute.

You’ll notice a subtle change in the pasta bite.

Experiment with Spices:

Feel free to adjust the garlic and onion powders or add a dash of paprika for some warmth.

This adds a unique twist without overpowering the main flavors.

Keep it Creamy:

If you notice the sauce thickening too much, just add a splash of milk.

Stir and balance the creaminess according to your taste.

Topping Ideas:

For a crunchy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs and bake at 350°F for ten minutes.

You get that yummy crust that complements the cheesy base.

What to Serve with Bojangles Mac and Cheese

Classic Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a traditional and tasty choice, adding a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy mac and cheese.

You can make it at home by spreading garlic butter on slices of your favorite loaf and toasting them in the oven until golden.

Fresh Garden Salad

A fresh garden salad brings in crispness and introduces a refreshing balance to the richness of the mac and cheese.

Consider using a mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumbers, topped with a zesty vinaigrette.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Elevate your dish with roasted Brussels sprouts for an earthy yet savory companion.

By simply tossing them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roasting to perfection, you’ll have a delicious side that enhances the main meal.

Sweet Potato Fries

Adding sweet potato fries as a side can be a creative twist bringing in sweet and savory tastes.

They are simple to achieve by baking strips of sweet potato with a dash of paprika and salt until crispy.

Spicy Grilled Shrimp

For a more adventurous pairing, try some spicy grilled shrimp.

The seasoning with a touch of cayenne and lemon juice brings an exciting element to your mac and cheese experience.

Variations and Substitutions

You can experiment with different cheeses to create a flavor that’s just right for you.

Try using cheddar, gouda, or even a touch of blue cheese for a bold twist.

Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free alternatives if you have dietary restrictions.

It works perfectly and still tastes amazing!

Spice It Up

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a spicy kick.

You can also toss in some diced jalapeños if you’re feeling adventurous.

This version will have a bit of a heat that you might love.

Vegetables and Proteins

Incorporate vegetables like chopped spinach or broccoli for added texture and nutrients.

You can also add cooked bacon or shredded chicken for a protein boost.

These additions will turn your mac and cheese into a more filling meal.

Vegan Options

To make it vegan, use almond milk and vegan cheese.

There are many great vegan cheeses available that melt well.

This way, you can enjoy a delicious and plant-based version!

How to Store Leftover Bojangles Mac and Cheese

When you find yourself with Bojangles mac and cheese leftovers, proper storage is key.

You want to keep that creamy goodness fresh for when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Refrigerating Your Mac and Cheese

Place leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and texture in the fridge.

It’s best to store it within two hours of cooking to minimize bacterial growth.

It will generally stay good in the fridge for up to three to five days.

Freezing for Longer Storage

If you aren’t going to eat it soon, freezing is a great option!

Transfer your mac and cheese into a container meant for freezing or use a zip-lock bag.

Make sure to label it with the date so you won’t forget when it was made.

Thawing Before Serving

When you’re ready to dive back into your cheesy leftovers, transfer them from the freezer to the fridge.

This slow thawing method helps to preserve the dish’s original texture and flavors.

After thawing overnight, you’ll be all set to enjoy it!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pasta Choice

Choosing the wrong pasta can really throw off your mac and cheese.

Make sure to select pasta like elbow macaroni, which holds the cheese sauce beautifully.

Avoid pasta types that don’t catch the sauce well, since they might lead to a less creamy dish.

Milk Selection

Using incorrect milk can impact the texture of your dish.

You should go for whole milk because it provides the right amount of creaminess and stability.

Skimping on milk fat by using low-fat milk might leave your mac and cheese lacking in richness.

Skipping the Roux

Skipping a proper roux might cause the cheese sauce to clump or become inconsistent.

Always start your cheese sauce with a roux for a silky, smooth texture.

Don’t rush this step, as a well-made roux is key to a successful mac and cheese.