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Plated smoked mac and cheese served with a fresh garden salad.

smoked mac and cheese recipe

Indulge in this creamy, smoky delight with our smoked mac and cheese recipe! Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. 🧀🔥
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American-inspired comfort food
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Instructions

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni the classic pasta choice that holds the cheese sauce beautifully.
Cheese
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor that elevates the dish.
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese provides creaminess and a mild taste for balance.
  • 1 cup Smoked Gouda Cheese infuses a delightful smoky flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Sauce Ingredients
  • 4 tablespoons Butter adds richness and helps create a smooth cheese sauce.
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour thickens the cheese sauce for a creamy texture.
  • 2 cups Milk combines with cheese to create a luscious sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Mustard Powder adds a subtle tang that brightens the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder enhances the savory profile of the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder contributes depth and flavor to the cheese sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika adds a hint of smokiness and a pop of color.
  • to taste Salt essential for bringing out all the flavors.
  • to taste Black Pepper adds a touch of heat and complexity.
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy mac and cheese.

Equipment

  • 1 large pot for boiling pasta
  • 1 Saucepan for making cheese sauce
  • 1 cast-iron skillet or disposable aluminum pan for smoking the mac and cheese
  • 1 Smoker set to 225°F

Method
 

Gather Your Ingredients
  1. Collect elbow macaroni, shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella), butter, milk, flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Pasta
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
  1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
Add the Cheese
  1. Once the sauce thickens, add shredded cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until melted and creamy.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
  1. Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Prepare for Smoking
  1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Transfer the mac and cheese to a cast-iron skillet or a disposable aluminum pan.
Smoke the Dish
  1. Place the skillet in the smoker. Smoke for about 1 hour, stirring halfway through for even flavor.
Serve and Enjoy
  1. Remove from the smoker, let cool slightly, and serve warm. Enjoy your smoky, cheesy masterpiece!