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Smoked Mac and Cheese

Smoked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a smoky BBQ twist. Learn how to make it creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor!
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This Smoked Mac and Cheese is rich, creamy, and infused with a deep smoky flavor! Made with a blend of gooey cheeses, butter, and a crispy topping, this dish is perfect for BBQs, holiday gatherings, or an indulgent comfort meal. 🧀🔥

Ingredients

Scale

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni (or cavatappi)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Smoker:

    • Set your smoker to 225°F (107°C) using hickory, apple, or cherry wood pellets.

  2. Cook the Pasta:

    • Boil salted water and cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  3. Make the Cheese Sauce:

    • In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
    • Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until golden.
    • Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring until thickened.
    • Add cheddar, smoked Gouda, and Parmesan, stirring until melted.
    • Mix in Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

  4. Assemble the Mac and Cheese:

    • Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni and mix well.
    • Pour into a cast iron skillet or aluminum pan for smoking.

  5. Prepare the Topping:

    • Mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and smoked paprika.
    • Sprinkle over the mac and cheese.

  6. Smoke the Mac and Cheese:

    • Place in the smoker uncovered and smoke for 1 hour until bubbly and golden.

  7. Serve & Enjoy:

    • Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve hot and creamy!

Notes

  • For a deeper smoky flavor, smoke for up to 2 hours.
  • For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños.
  • To make it meatier, mix in crispy bacon or smoked brisket.

Find it online: https://kenzierecipes.com/smoked-mac-and-cheese/