Smoked Mac and Cheese

Smoked mac and cheese is the ultimate twist on a classic comfort food, combining the creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional mac and cheese with the bold, smoky flavor that only a smoker can provide. Whether you’re preparing it as a side dish for your next BBQ or making it the star of the meal, this smoked mac and cheese recipe is guaranteed to impress.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ingredients, step-by-step instructions, variations, and expert tips to help you achieve the perfect smoked mac and cheese every time.

What is Smoked Mac and Cheese?

Smoked mac and cheese is a variation of classic mac and cheese that’s cooked in a smoker to infuse it with deep, smoky flavors. Using wood chips like hickory, applewood, or cherrywood enhances the taste, giving it a distinct BBQ-style richness that pairs well with grilled meats and other smoked dishes.

Unlike traditional baked mac and cheese, this recipe develops a slightly crispy, golden top layer while maintaining a rich and creamy interior. The smoking process also adds an extra dimension of flavor, making it an excellent addition to any cookout or holiday meal.

Ingredients for Smoked Mac and Cheese

Core Ingredients:

• 16 oz elbow macaroni (or cavatappi for extra texture)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup smoked gouda, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping, optional)

Optional Add-ins:

• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup jalapeños, diced
• 1/2 cup caramelized onions

Wood Chips:

• Hickory (for a strong, smoky flavor)
• Applewood (for a mild sweetness)
• Cherrywood (for a slightly fruity smoke)

For those looking to boost the protein content in their smoked mac and cheese, consider adding meats like pulled pork or chicken—discover more options in this guide on What is a Good Protein to Add to Mac and Cheese?

How to Make Smoked Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
2. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly for 2-3 minutes to form a roux.
3. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Stir in Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and slowly add the shredded cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until fully coated. Transfer the mixture to a cast-iron skillet or an aluminum pan suitable for the smoker.

Step 4: Add Toppings (Optional)

For a crispy topping, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and spread evenly over the mac and cheese.

Step 5: Smoke the Mac and Cheese

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
2. Place the mac and cheese in the smoker and smoke for 1-2 hours, using your preferred wood chips.
3. Check occasionally to ensure the top develops a slight crust without drying out.

For more ideas on different types of mac and cheese dishes, explore our unique recipe for high-protein mac and cheese. 

Variations of Smoked Mac and Cheese

1. Smoked Mac and Cheese with Bacon

• Bacon makes everything better, right? Add crispy bacon bits to the cheese sauce or sprinkle them on top for a delicious crunch and smoky flavor.

2. Spicy Smoked Mac and Cheese

• Kick up the heat by adding diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a dash of smoked paprika. The smoky and spicy flavors complement each other beautifully.

3. Smoked Mac and Cheese with Pulled Pork

• Layer in pulled pork for a BBQ-inspired mac and cheese that’s hearty enough to be a main dish.

4. Vegetarian Smoked Mac and Cheese

• Use smoked plant-based cheese and add grilled veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms for a meat-free option.

This recipe has become increasingly popular, particularly in BBQ circles, as a side dish or even a main course. For more ideas on smoked side dishes, you can check out this ultimate guide to BBQ side dishes, which pairs well with smoked mac and cheese. 

For more creative recipes that pair well with smoked mac and cheese, check out this What to Eat with Mac and Cheese 

Expert Tips :

1. Use a Cheese Blend – Combining different cheeses like sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and Monterey Jack gives a deeper flavor profile.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Al dente pasta prevents mushy mac and cheese after smoking.
3. Control the Smoke – Too much smoke can make the dish bitter. Stick to a mild, steady smoke for a balanced flavor.
4. Keep it Creamy – Adding extra milk or cream before smoking helps prevent dryness.
5. Let it Rest – Allow the smoked mac and cheese to sit for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Smoked mac and cheese is the perfect way to take this classic comfort food to new heights. With its creamy, cheesy texture and rich, smoky flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s great for BBQs, family gatherings, or even as a main dish. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a fun variation, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

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