As the autumn leaves swirl and strange sounds dance into the night, it’s time to embrace the magic of Halloween with a dinner that’s both playful and delicious. My Wildflower Honey BBQ Drumsticks with Jack-O-Lantern Macaroni and Cheese is a feast that captures the spirit of the season while keeping dinner stress-free. In just 35 minutes, you can bring a family-friendly meal to the table—perfect for those busy evenings filled with costume prep and trick-or-treating. Not only are these drumsticks bursting with a delightful sweet and smoky flavor, but the creamy stovetop mac and cheese served in whimsical jack-o-lantern cups brings fun to every bite. Curious how to bring this festive feast to life? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why are these drumsticks so special?
Simplicity at its Best: This recipe can be on your table in just 35 minutes—perfect for busy Halloween nights when the family is gearing up for trick-or-treating.
Sweet and Smoky Goodness: The Wildflower Honey BBQ drumsticks provide a delightful balance of flavors, making them a sure hit for both kids and adults alike.
Creative Presentation: Served in fun jack-o-lantern cups, the macaroni and cheese elevates your dinner experience, turning a standard meal into a festive occasion that ignites the spirit of Halloween.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in different variants of Cooked Perfect® Fire Grilled Chicken, or change up the pasta shape for a unique twist—there’s room for creativity!
Family Fun: Involve your kids in decorating the cups, turning cooking into an engaging activity that can spark their imaginations. If you’re looking for a refreshing side, consider pairing it with a Salad Bacon Cheese for added flavor and nutrition.
Drumsticks with Jack-O-Lantern Mac and Cheese Ingredients
For the Drumsticks
• Cooked Perfect® Fire Grilled Chicken Drumsticks (Wildflower Honey BBQ) – A sweet and smoky protein that’s already cooked; just heat per package instructions for convenience.
For the Mac and Cheese
• Elbow Macaroni (2 cups, uncooked) – The traditional base for mac and cheese that provides a comforting structure.
• Condensed Cheddar Cheese Soup (1 can, 10.75 oz) – This adds the creamy, cheesy flavor essential for the dish; consider a homemade cheese sauce for a personalized touch.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (3 cups) – Boosts the cheesy texture; using sharp cheddar will intensify the flavor.
• Heavy Cream (1/2 cup) – Lends a rich, velvety texture; swap for half-and-half for a lighter alternative.
• Sour Cream (1/4 cup) – Adds a delightful tang and creaminess to the dish.
• Salt (3/4 teaspoon) – Enhances all flavors; feel free to adjust based on personal preference.
• Ground Mustard (1/2 teaspoon) – Infuses a subtle tanginess into the cheese sauce.
• White Pepper (1/4 teaspoon) – Offers a mild heat; black pepper works just as well if that’s what you have.
• Green Bell Pepper (1/4, sliced into strips) – Used as decoration in jack-o-lantern cups to add a festive touch.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Drumsticks with Jack-O-Lantern Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Prepare Jack-O-Lantern Cups
Begin by grabbing a few small plastic cups and using a permanent marker to draw fun jack-o-lantern faces on them. Set these whimsical cups aside as they will hold your creamy mac and cheese later, adding an element of festive fun to your meal.
Step 2: Cook Drumsticks
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the Cooked Perfect® Fire Grilled Chicken Drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are heated through and nicely caramelized, making sure to turn them halfway for even crisping.
Step 3: Cook Macaroni
While the drumsticks are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni, cooking until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and return it to the pot so it’s ready for the creamy cheese sauce that will elevate your jack-o-lantern mac and cheese.
Step 4: Make Cheese Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in one can of condensed cheddar cheese soup along with 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup of heavy cream, ¼ cup of sour cream, ¾ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon ground mustard, and ¼ teaspoon white pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Assemble
Spoon the velvety mac and cheese into the prepared jack-o-lantern cups, filling them generously. For a finishing touch, place a slice of green bell pepper in the center of each cup to resemble a pumpkin stem, adding a festive flair to your Halloween-themed dinner.
Step 6: Serve
Once the drumsticks are perfectly cooked and golden, plate them alongside the whimsical mac and cheese cups. Your delicious Drumsticks with Jack-O-Lantern Mac and Cheese are now ready to delight your family, making for a charming meal that captures the spirit of Halloween.
Storage Tips for Drumsticks with Jack-O-Lantern Mac and Cheese
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep your drumsticks and mac and cheese fresh while preserving their flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the mac and cheese portion in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s tightly sealed to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen mac and cheese in the fridge overnight. Warm it up in a pot on low heat, stirring regularly until heated through. The drumsticks can be reheated in the oven for the best texture, maintaining their crispy exterior.
Make-Ahead: Consider preparing the mac and cheese ahead of time, allowing it to be baked just before serving for a quick and delightful meal on Halloween.
What to Serve with Wildflower Honey BBQ Drumsticks with Jack-O-Lantern Macaroni and Cheese
Elevate your festive Halloween meal with delicious sides that perfectly complement the sweet and smoky flavors of your drumsticks.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Their charred, nutty flavor beautifully balances the richness of the mac and cheese, providing a delightful crunch.
- Garlic Breadsticks: These warm, buttery delights invite dipping and pair perfectly with the creamy texture of the macaroni.
- Roasted Butternut Squash: A sweet and earthy side that enhances the overall autumnal vibe of your dinner, making each bite a seasonal treat.
- Seasonal Harvest Salad: Fresh greens, apples, and walnuts create a lovely contrast in textures and flavors, refreshing the palate.
- Apple Cider: This spiced drink adds warmth and complements the sweet elements of the drumsticks while keeping the festive spirit alive.
- Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes: For dessert, these whimsical treats resonate with the season and make a sweet ending to your family-friendly feast.
Make Ahead Options
These Wildflower Honey BBQ Drumsticks with Jack-O-Lantern Mac and Cheese are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy Halloween nights! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the cheese sauce and mix it with the cooked macaroni, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. To maintain the creamy texture, avoid baking until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to eat, heat the mac and cheese on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through, then bake it for about 15-20 minutes in a preheated oven for that delicious, bubbly finish. The drumsticks can be warmed up to 3 days in advance; just follow the package instructions for reheating to keep them juicy and flavorful!
Drumsticks with Jack-O-Lantern Mac and Cheese Variations
Feel free to embrace your culinary creativity and customize this delicious dish to suit your taste preferences!
-
Alternative BBQ Sauce: Swap out Wildflower Honey BBQ for Bourbon BBQ or Classic BBQ for a different flavor profile.
-
Pasta Shape Variation: Instead of elbow macaroni, try using shells or cavatappi for an exciting textural twist that kids will love.
-
Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free mac and cheese, use coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of cream and cheese; the flavor still shines through.
-
Add Extra Veggies: Stir in some steamed broccoli or spinach into the mac and cheese for a nutritious boost that complements the rich flavors.
-
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a fiery twist.
-
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like thyme or basil into the mac and cheese for an aromatic flavor layer that elevates every bite.
-
Protein Swap: Switch the drumsticks for Cooked Perfect® Fire Grilled Chicken Breasts for a leaner option while still enjoying that fantastic BBQ taste.
-
Creamy Alternative: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use cauliflower puree to keep it creamy yet light.
These variations not only add creativity but also keep the magic of Halloween alive in a family-friendly way! For a refreshing side that pairs wonderfully, consider serving it alongside a delightful Carrot Cucumber Salad.
Expert Tips for Drumsticks with Jack-O-Lantern Mac and Cheese
-
Quick Cooking: Heat the chicken and cook the macaroni simultaneously to save time and have everything ready at once for your special Halloween dinner.
-
Velvety Cheese Sauce: Stir continuously while heating the cheese sauce to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency—this prevents any graininess that could dampen the deliciousness of your mac and cheese.
-
Decorative Kids’ Activity: Involve your children in decorating the jack-o-lantern cups for a fun, hands-on activity that adds excitement to the cooking process and makes dining a whimsical experience.
-
Season to Taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust seasonings like salt and pepper to suit your family’s palate. Personalizing flavors makes the dish even more enjoyable for everyone.
-
Creative Pasta Shapes: For a fun twist, try different pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi in your jack-o-lantern mac and cheese. It’s a simple change that can add variety to the dish!
Drumsticks with Jack-O-Lantern Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the drumsticks?
I recommend using Cooked Perfect® Fire Grilled Chicken Drumsticks (Wildflower Honey BBQ) for their sweet and smoky flavor that perfectly complements the creamy mac and cheese. They are pre-cooked, so you only need to heat them according to the package instructions—no fuss involved!
How do I store leftovers from this recipe?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and ready to enjoy again! Simply reheat the chicken and mac and cheese in the oven for the best texture—about 15-20 minutes at 350°F makes for a deliciously warm re-serve.
Can I freeze the mac and cheese? How?
Absolutely! To freeze the leftover mac and cheese, first cool it completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat slowly in a pot on low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through—it’s so comforting!
What if my cheese sauce turns out grainy?
If your cheese sauce isn’t as smooth as you’d like, don’t worry! Simply return it to low heat, stirring continuously. If it remains grainy, try adding a splash of additional heavy cream or milk and stir until melted and combined. A gentle heat and consistent stirring will help bring it back to a creamy, velvety texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! For a vegetarian twist, you can substitute the chicken with your favorite grilled veggies or plant-based protein. Additionally, use a homemade cheese sauce to ensure all ingredients fit your dietary preferences. This keeps the spirit of Halloween alive while catering to various tastes!
What are the best pasta alternatives for the mac and cheese?
The sky’s the limit! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can swap it for fun pasta shapes like shells, cavatappi, or even rotini for a delightful twist in your jack-o-lantern mac and cheese. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different pasta shapes may require slight adjustments.
Delicious Drumsticks with Jack-O-Lantern Mac and Cheese Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Jack-O-Lantern Cups: Draw fun jack-o-lantern faces on small plastic cups and set aside.
- Cook Drumsticks: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the drumsticks for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Cook Macaroni: Boil salted water and cook elbow macaroni for 6-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and return to pot.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Stir in cheddar cheese soup, shredded cheddar, heavy cream, sour cream, salt, mustard, and white pepper on low heat until creamy.
- Assemble: Spoon the mac and cheese into jack-o-lantern cups and place a green bell pepper slice on top.
- Serve: Plate the drumsticks alongside the mac and cheese cups for a festive Halloween meal.