Tater Tots: Start with a solid base of frozen tater tots, or make your own homemade version for an extra crispy touch.

Macaroni: Choose your preferred type of macaroni, whether it’s elbow, penne, or something more whimsical. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.

Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar cheese is the way to go for a bold, cheesy flavor. You can also experiment with other types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Colby, to find your perfect blend.

Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon adds a savory, salty element that complements the other flavors beautifully. For a vegetarian option, you can use smoky tempeh or crispy tofu instead.

BBQ Sauce: Select your favorite barbecue sauce, whether it’s a tangy, tomato-based variety or a sweet and smoky version. Homemade or store-bought, the BBQ sauce is the star of the show.

Cream Cheese: A touch of softened cream cheese helps to create a creamy, luxurious texture in the mac and cheese mixture.

Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika provide depth of flavor and round out the dish.

Green Onions: Freshly chopped green onions add a pop of color and a subtle onion flavor to balance the richness.