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Smoked Mac and Cheese

Smoked Mac and Cheese is an indulgent twist on the classic comfort food, combining creamy textures with a rich, smoky flavor that elevates every bite. This dish features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and smoked gouda, creating a delightful balance of taste and texture. Perfect for backyard barbecues or cozy family gatherings, this recipe is both simple to prepare and highly customizable. Whether you choose to add crispy bacon for extra crunch or spicy jalapeños for a kick, you’re sure to impress your guests with this deliciously satisfying meal. Dive into this smoked mac and cheese experience that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups smoked gouda cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
  3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth; gradually add milk and stir until thickened.
  4. Remove from heat and mix in the cheddar and gouda until melted; season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  5. Combine the cheese sauce with the drained macaroni until well-coated.
  6. Transfer to a smoker-safe dish, top with breadcrumbs if desired, and smoke for about one hour until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Author: Larissa W.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Comfort Food
  • Method: Smoking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 810mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables. Experiment with different cheese combinations like pepper jack or mozzarella for unique taste profiles. Allow the dish to rest briefly after smoking to enhance texture before serving.