Smoked Mac and Cheese

There’s something truly magical about the combination of creamy cheese and perfectly cooked pasta that brings warmth to any gathering. That’s why I love making Smoked Mac and Cheese for my family and friends. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a casual backyard BBQ, this dish never fails to impress. The rich, smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce, creating a comforting meal that tantalizes the taste buds. I remember the first time I tried this recipe; the moment I took a bite, I was transported to cheese heaven! It has since become a staple at our dinner table and a must-have for special occasions.

As I perfected my technique, I learned that the key to a great Smoked Mac and Cheese lies in the quality of the ingredients and the method of cooking. Using freshly shredded cheeses ensures that they melt beautifully, and the subtle smokiness from the grill adds an unmatched depth of flavor. It’s a dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for entertaining guests.

When you serve this creamy delight, be prepared for the compliments to roll in. Everyone loves digging into a warm, cheesy casserole, and this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home as it has in mine. So gather your loved ones, fire up the smoker, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that warms the heart and soul.

Shopping List for Smoked Mac and Cheese

When creating the perfect Smoked Mac and Cheese, it’s essential to choose high-quality ingredients that will meld together beautifully. The star of this dish is undoubtedly the elbow macaroni, which acts as the base, holding all the delicious cheese sauce. The combination of butter, flour, and half-and-half creates a creamy and rich sauce, while the mix of cheeses brings layers of flavor. Don’t forget the Panko breadcrumbs for that satisfying crunch on top!

• 1 pound dry elbow macaroni
• ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 cups half-and-half
• 4 ounces cream cheese (½ brick)
• 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
• 1½ cups shredded or cubed gouda cheese
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (½ stick)

Instructions for Smoked Mac and Cheese

Making Smoked Mac and Cheese is a delightful journey that’s almost as enjoyable as eating it. Start by cooking your pasta and infusing the flavors as you go along. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to achieve this delicious, smoky dish!

1. Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, letting the steam escape so it doesn’t get mushy.
2. While the pasta is cooking, preheat your smoker or BBQ to 225°F. Add your choice of wood chips to the coals to start generating that lovely smoky aroma. It’s all about the flavor, so choose what pairs well with cheese!
3. In a 12-inch cast iron skillet, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk it together, cooking for about a minute until you see a light golden color. This will be the basis for your cheese sauce.
4. Next, whisk in the mustard powder, black pepper, and garlic powder. This creates a base flavor that will enhance the cheese. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
5. Slowly pour in 2 cups of half-and-half, whisking constantly. It’s important to do this gradually to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, usually around 5 minutes.
6. Once thickened, lower the heat and add the cream cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted and incorporated. The texture should be smooth and creamy, inviting you to dive right in!
7. Now it’s time to add the stars of the dish: stir in the cheddar cheese and gouda cheese until fully melted. You’ll want to take a moment to enjoy the enticing aroma!
8. Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in the cooked macaroni. Make sure every piece is coated in that glorious cheese sauce. This is the moment where the magic happens!
9. In a separate bowl, mix together the Panko breadcrumbs and the remaining ¼ cup of melted butter. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over your cheesy pasta, adding that perfect crunch on top.
10. Finally, transfer your skillet to the smoker, close the lid, and let it smoke for about an hour. The cheese will get bubbly and the breadcrumbs will turn golden brown, resulting in a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Tips and Tricks about Smoked Mac and Cheese

As you embark on your Smoked Mac and Cheese adventure, a few tips can help ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time. Here are some handy suggestions:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this dish! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Pairing: This mac and cheese pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables and a crisp salad to balance the richness.
• Leftover Magic: Use leftover Smoked Mac and Cheese to create delicious stuffed peppers or as a filling in quesadillas.
• Enhancements: Feel free to mix in cooked veggies or proteins like diced chicken or broccoli to add variety!

Perfect Pairings for Smoked Mac and Cheese

When planning a meal around your Smoked Mac and Cheese, think about what sides will complement its rich flavors. Here are some ideas:

• Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast seasoned with salt and pepper pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the mac and cheese.
• Roasted Vegetables: Bright, roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts bring a nice contrast to the dish.
• Fresh Salad: A mixed green salad drizzled with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Seasonal Occasions: This dish is perfect for winter gatherings, holiday feasts, or simply a cozy night in with family.
• Picnic Option: Pack portions for a fun picnic; it holds up well and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Smoked Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that combines the richness of cheese with a flavorful smoky essence. It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether a cozy family dinner or a summer barbecue. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; once you do, you’ll understand why it has become a favorite in my home. Enjoy the creamy goodness and the smiles it brings to your table!

Smoked Mac and Cheese

The ultimate comfort food, Smoked Mac and Cheese combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a delightful smoky flavor. It’s the perfect dish for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners. Make it tonight for a satisfying meal that everyone will love!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Elbow macaroni
• ½ cup Unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 4 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon Mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon Ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Garlic powder
• 2 cups Half-and-half
• 4 ounces Cream cheese (½ brick)
• 2 cups Freshly shredded cheddar cheese
• 1½ cups Shredded or cubed gouda cheese
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup Unsalted butter (½ stick)

Equipment

• Smoker
• Grill
• Smoker Box
• cast-iron skillet

Method

 

1. Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, letting the steam escape so it doesn’t get mushy.
2. While the pasta is cooking, preheat your smoker or BBQ to 225°F. Add your choice of wood chips to the coals to start generating that lovely smoky aroma. It’s all about the flavor, so choose what pairs well with cheese!
3. In a 12-inch cast iron skillet, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk it together, cooking for about a minute until you see a light golden color. This will be the basis for your cheese sauce.
4. Next, whisk in the mustard powder, black pepper, and garlic powder. This creates a base flavor that will enhance the cheese. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
5. Slowly pour in 2 cups of half-and-half, whisking constantly. It’s important to do this gradually to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, usually around 5 minutes.
6. Once thickened, lower the heat and add the cream cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted and incorporated. The texture should be smooth and creamy, inviting you to dive right in!
7. Now it's time to add the stars of the dish: stir in the cheddar cheese and gouda cheese until fully melted. You’ll want to take a moment to enjoy the enticing aroma!
8. Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in the cooked macaroni. Make sure every piece is coated in that glorious cheese sauce. This is the moment where the magic happens!
9. In a separate bowl, mix together the Panko breadcrumbs and the remaining ¼ cup of melted butter. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over your cheesy pasta, adding that perfect crunch on top.
10. Finally, transfer your skillet to the smoker, close the lid, and let it smoke for about an hour. The cheese will get bubbly and the breadcrumbs will turn golden brown, resulting in a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Notes

• Tip 1: You can substitute gruyere for the gouda.
• Tip 2: Use freshly-grated cheeses, as they melt better than pre-shredded.
• Tip 3: You can also smoke this in a disposable foil pan.
• Tip 4: You can use a BBQ smoker box to convert your grill into a smoker.
• Tip 5: Use mild-flavored wood chips, like apple, cherry, pecan, or maple.

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