Kansas BBQ Mac and Cheese Stuffed Peppers

Introduction

Fire up your Arteflame grill for an irresistible Kansas BBQ Mac and Cheese Stuffed Peppers recipe! Smoky, cheesy, and grilled to perfection, these stuffed peppers combine the creamy goodness of mac and cheese with the delicious char of fire-roasted bell peppers. This is the perfect comfort meal to showcase your grilling skills.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the fire to build for about 20 minutes until the Arteflame cooktop is hot and ready.

Step 2: Prepare the Bell Peppers

1. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
2. Lightly coat the outside of the peppers with butter to enhance char and flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Macaroni

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil on the hot flat-top cooktop.
2. Boil the macaroni until al dente, then drain.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Melt butter on the flat-top and stir in heavy cream and milk.
2. Whisk in the cheese, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in the cooked macaroni until well combined.

Step 5: Stuff and Grill the Peppers

1. Spoon the mac and cheese into the bell peppers.
2. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top.
3. Place the stuffed peppers on the Arteflame’s flat-top cooktop, positioning them near the center for moderate heat.
4. Cover loosely with foil and allow to cook for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Tips

• Use colored bell peppers for different flavors: red for sweetness, green for a sharp bite.
• Optional: Add cooked bacon or grilled chicken to the mac and cheese for extra protein.
• Grill a side of veggies alongside the peppers for a complete meal.
• If using spicy BBQ sauce, balance with a touch of honey.
• Let the stuffed peppers rest for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to set before serving.

Variations

• Buffalo Style: Swap BBQ sauce for buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese crumbles.
• Tex-Mex Twist: Add taco seasoning and use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
• Smoky Bacon: Mix in crispy bacon bits and smoked gouda cheese.
• Truffle Gourmet: Stir in a touch of truffle oil and use gruyère cheese.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños and extra cayenne for heat.

Conclusion

Kansas BBQ Mac and Cheese Stuffed Peppers bring together creamy, smoky goodness with a perfect grilled texture. Using the Arteflame grill ensures an even cook without burning, making this a standout dish at any BBQ gathering.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with butter and herbs
• Smoked brisket or pulled pork
• Fresh coleslaw for a crunchy contrast
• BBQ baked beans
• Cool, refreshing iced tea or a smoky bourbon cocktail