Abilene’s Ultimate Mac & Cheese Cook-Off: Get Ready to Savor, Texans

While macaroni-and-cheese is not my personal favorite, it's been a life-or-death staple for all eight of my children for the last 45 years. So it's not surprising to me that there is a mac-and-cheese cook-off that takes place right here in Abilene every year.

This will be the 6th Annual Big Cheese Extravaganza, aka the macaroni-and-cheese cook-off fundraiser benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Abilene. This is where local Big Country competitors - restaurants, caterers, food trucks and others - come to compete for the title of "The Big Cheese".

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If mac-and-cheese is one of your favorites, then prepare your tastebuds for Thursday, October 19, as the competitors come together to serve up this ancient Italian dish. While mac-and-cheese may sound more like an American dish, it is actually an Italian 13th-century creation whereby elbow macaroni is smothered with tasty, creamy cheese.

On October 19, all participants will be serving up their version of this dish for your enjoyment and consideration for your vote.

"Just like no two Big Brother or Big Sister matches are the same, each macaroni-and-cheese creation is also a unique combination and experience for your taste buds! The Big Cheese is a family-friendly event and each guest, no matter the age, will play a part by voting for their favorite dish. The categories are People’s Choice, Kid’s Choice, and Judges’ Choice."

Source: BBBS Director of Events Mallory Wilcox, Press Release

Winners will be selected from each category, and one overall winner from all three categories will be awarded the “The Big Cheese”. After casting your vote, you'll also participate in the "Never Cook Again" raffle for a chance to win a collection of gift cards from all the participating vendors.

Make plans to come and enjoy some satisfying mac-and-cheese creations knowing that all funds raised through this event will stay right here in Abilene and directly impact our local children. The Big Cheese Extravaganza is Thursday, October 19, from 6-8 PM at the Abilene Convention Center (1100 North 6th Street).

Tickets are $30 for adults and $10 for children (15 & under) if purchased prior to October 19. Day-of-event tickets are $40 for adults and $20 for children. Tickets and sponsorships are available at TheBigCheese Abilene.com. For more info, call 325-674-3100.